The Kwara State Government has warned residents against indiscriminate dumping of refuse on road medians and other unauthorized locations across the state, describing the practice as a major environmental and public health threat.

The warning was issued by the Commissioner for Environment, Hajia Nafisat Buge, during a review of reports submitted by Environmental Health Officers and the ministry’s task force, according to a statement released on Friday by the ministry’s Press Secretary, Muritala Shakirat.

Buge said the renewed enforcement exercise was aimed at improving sanitation, preventing flooding caused by blocked drainage systems, and protecting residents from disease outbreaks.

She disclosed that environmental officials had intensified monitoring activities within Ilorin metropolis, particularly against illegal waste disposal and noise pollution.

“Environmental Team sealed off no fewer than two facilities where excessive and unbearable noise levels were reported within the metropolis, and six offenders were arrested for dumping refuse on the road median,” she said.

The commissioner noted that indiscriminate waste disposal remained a serious environmental challenge capable of contaminating the environment and exposing residents to health hazards.

She warned that violators of environmental regulations would face legal consequences, stressing that the government would not tolerate activities capable of undermining public safety and environmental sustainability.

“Every member of the public must be duly sensitized and informed on the extant regulations and guidelines, especially the permissible noise level in the night hours,” Hajia Buge stated.

She added that the warning became more necessary during festive periods when social activities and celebrations often lead to increased environmental violations and noise pollution.

The commissioner reaffirmed the state government’s commitment to maintaining a cleaner, safer, and healthier environment across Kwara State.

“We appreciate all those who have complied positively with the rules towards ensuring that we have a cleaner Kwara while we passionately appeal to everyone to cooperate with the government to reap the benefits of a cleaner and safer city,” she added.