The Kwara State Government has reiterated its commitment to the ban on charcoal production within its jurisdiction.
This confirmation came from the State Commissioner for Environment, Malam Shehu Ndanusa, during a press briefing in Ilorin last Friday.
Malam Ndanusa emphasized the government’s resolve, stating, The law banning the production of charcoal in Kwara is still intact. Whoever is caught violating the law will be sanctioned accordingly”
Highlighting the detrimental effects of unauthorized tree cutting for charcoal on the environment, the commissioner affirmed the government’s dedication to reforestation initiatives aimed at environmental conservation.
Furthermore, he disclosed that a special task force has been commissioned to patrol the state, ensuring adherence to the ban and seizing vehicles found transporting charcoal out of Kwara.
The task force, along with law enforcement officers, has received orders to detain any trucks exporting charcoal while permitting smaller vehicles like cars, buses, and taxis to carry charcoal for local use.
“Do not collect money from violators, make sure you confiscate the charcoal and the trucks and bring them to the Ministry of Environment for necessary actions,’’ he said.
He called upon the citizens to collaborate with the government’s efforts to combat deforestation and foster a clean, healthy environment throughout the state.
