Dare Babalola
The Ogun State Waste Management Authority (OGWAMA) has arrested and sentenced 45 residents to community service for allegedly engaging in indiscriminate waste disposal in parts of Abeokuta, the state capital.
The offenders were apprehended on Thursday at Panseke, Quarry Road and Kolobo areas after they were caught dumping refuse on roadsides, highways and other public spaces in violation of state environmental laws.
Addressing the suspects before they were assigned to community service, the Special Adviser to the Governor on OGWAMA, Hon. Farook Akintunde, condemned their actions, warning that such practices undermine public health and environmental safety.
He explained that indiscriminate waste disposal contributes to the defacement of the state capital, increases the spread of diseases—particularly airborne infections—and also risks contaminating underground water sources.
“This behaviour is unacceptable, especially at a time when there have been sustained public enlightenment campaigns against improper waste disposal across various media platforms,” Akintunde said.
He further stressed the importance of residents patronising government-licensed waste collectors assigned to their respective communities, rather than dumping refuse illegally.
Akintunde expressed disappointment over the conduct of the offenders but noted that they were spared prosecution after pleading for leniency and submitting written undertakings not to reoffend, as well as agreeing to register with authorised waste collectors.
“Based on their pleas, commitments, and immediate steps to comply with proper waste management procedures, they will undergo community service. However, anyone caught again will be prosecuted in line with Ogun State environmental laws,” he warned.
He also cautioned other residents engaging in similar practices to desist immediately, adding that stricter enforcement would continue across the state.
