The Kwara State Government has announced that mobile courts will begin operations in parts of Ilorin to address violations of environmental regulations. Areas such as the busy Oja-Oba market will be among the first to host these court sittings.
Hajia Nafisat Musa Buge, the State Commissioner for Environment, made this known during a meeting with ministry staff at its GRA, Ilorin office. The statement was issued by Muritala Shakirat, Press Secretary and Monitoring and Evaluation Officer.
“We shall reactivate our Mobile Courts with immediate effect and ensure that people who violate environmental laws, by dumping refuse indiscriminately, or trading in illegal places like walkways, road medians, and main roads, shall be brought to book,” she said.
Buge said the courts will sit at strategic points to monitor and enforce compliance, particularly at Ilorin Central Market (Oja-Oba).
“Environmental Health Officers will work with security agencies to arrest and punish offenders. A magistrate will also be present to judge the cases.
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Those who cannot pay fines may be sent to correctional centres, and their goods will be seized,” she added.
She said the government under Governor AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq has made key investments in infrastructure to promote a cleaner environment.
Buge also advised property owners to obtain valid documentation through the Kwara State Geographic Information Service (KW-GIS).
She issued a final warning to residents against dumping waste in waterways or drainages, saying such actions lead to avoidable flooding.