The Rivers State Waste Management Agency (RIWAMA) has sent a strong message to environmental offenders in the state. Recently, 18 individuals were arrested and arraigned for improper waste disposal and violating environmental laws. These offenders were caught engaging in harmful activities across various locations, undermining efforts to keep the metropolis clean.
According to Helen Ohaka, Director of Legal Affairs, these arrests mark a zero-tolerance approach towards indiscriminate waste disposal.
“This is no longer business as usual,” she emphasized. The consequences for these offenders were severe: 14 received fines, two were remanded at the Port Harcourt Correctional Centre, and two were discharged.
RIWAMA’s enforcement team worked tirelessly to apprehend these offenders. The agency’s efforts are crucial in maintaining a healthy environment. Improper waste disposal poses significant risks, including:
- Soil Contamination
- Water Pollution
- Air Pollution
The 18 offenders were brought before RIWAMA’s mobile court. The court’s verdicts were:
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- 14 individuals received fines corresponding to their offenses
- 2 individuals were remanded at the Port Harcourt Correctional Centre
- 2 individuals were discharged by the presiding magistrate
RIWAMA’s sole administrator, Prince Ohio, has demonstrated leadership skills in establishing the mobile court. This ensures environmental offenders are held accountable.
RIWAMA urges residents to maintain clean surroundings and business premises. Proper waste management is crucial for a healthy environment. Residents must:
- Dispose of waste correctly
- Recycle when possible
- Avoid littering
- Keep drains clear
Proper waste management offers numerous benefits:
- Reduced risk of diseases
- Cleaner environment
- Increased property values
- Improved quality of life
RIWAMA’s zero-tolerance approach serves as a deterrent. Environmental offenders will face consequences.
Helen Ohaka commended RIWAMA’s Sole Administrator for his leadership. Prince Ohio’s efforts have established a mobile court, ensuring environmental offenders are held accountable.
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