Enimere Àkànbí
The Oyo State House of Assembly has called on the State Government to strengthen enforcement of Environmental Regulations, particularly on air and water pollution across companies, lounges, institutions and malls in the State.
The is to ensure a more standard, friendly and pollution free environment for the people of the Pacesetter State.
This was part of resolves on a motion co-sponsored by lawmaker representing Oyo East/West State Constituency, Honourable Rahman Olorunpoto, during the plenary presided over by the Speaker, Honourable Adebo Ogundoyin.
The co-sponsored include member representing Ibarapa East cum Speaker, Honourable Ogundoyin, Leader of the House, Honourable Sanjo Adedoyin, representing Ogbomosho South, a member representing Ibadan East one constituency, Honourable Abiodun Babalola and member representing Atiba constituency, Honourable Gbenga Oyekola,
Presenting the motion, Honourable Olorunpoto said that improper discharge of industrial effluents, toxic emissions and poor waste management practices by some establishments across Oyo State contribute to the containment of water bodies, air pollution and the deteriorating of ecosystem.
Adding that it poses a significant threat to public health and the environment, which could lead to respiratory illness, waterborne diseases and environmental degradation.
Honourable Olorunpoto explained further that it is imperative to strengthen the enforcement of Environmental standards in order to curb the menace of water and air pollution and ensure appropriate punishment for any individual violating the law guilding Environmental activities in the State as stated by the law.
“The Environmental Management Laws of Oyo State mandate strict compliance with Environmental standards and provide for punitive measures against non – compliance, yet some businesses and institutions continue to flout these laws with impunity”
“The inadequate enforcement of Environmental Regulations and the lack of regular monitoring create a loophole for non – compliant businesses to operate at the expense of public health and environmental sustainability” He added.
Reacting to the various submissions during the debate on the motion, the Speaker, Honourable Ogundoyin, directed the standing committees on Environment, Water Resources and Ecology to make a general assessment on the roles of Local and State Governments in ensuring clean environments across the State and its sustainability.
The House also called on all companies , lounges, mall and institutions in Oyo State to adopt eco – friendly practices, such as proper waste disposal, water recycling and emission control system in compliance with environmental laws in the State.
Leave a Reply