By Mosope Kehinde
In its efforts to ensure a more standard, friendly and pollution-free environment for the people of Pacesetter State, the Oyo State House of Assembly has called on the executive to strengthen the enforcement of Environmental Regulations, particularly on air and water pollution across companies, lounges, institutions and malls in the state.
This was part of resolves in a motion moved by the lawmaker representing Oyo East/West State Constituency, Mr Olorunpoto Rahman during a plenary presided over by the Speaker, Rt. Hon. Adebo Ogundoyin.
Presenting the motion, Mr Olorunpoto revealed that the air and water pollution caused by companies, lounges, institutions, malls and other establishments pose a significant threat to public health and the environment, leading to respiratory illness, waterborne diseases and environmental degradation.
The motion co-sponsored by Mr Adebo Ogundoyin, Mr Sanjo Adedoyin, Mr Abiodun Babalola, and Mr Gbenga Oyekola stated that the 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 the ecosystem.
Mr 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 guiding 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, Mr Ogundoyin however directed the standing committees on Environment, Water Resources and Ecology to make a general assessment of 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, malls and institutions in Oyo State to adopt eco-friendly practices, such as proper waste disposal, water recycling and emission control systems in compliance with environmental laws in the state.
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