The Ekiti State Government has prosecuted 55 people for allegedly violating environmental sanitation rules during the February monthly clean-up exercise.
According to a statement issued on Monday by the state Ministry of Environment in Ado Ekiti, the offenders were arrested for breaching the movement restriction order during the sanitation hours on Saturday.
Magistrates handling the cases fined 54 individuals, while one person was discharged.
Speaking during a compliance monitoring exercise, the Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Environment and Natural Resources, Sunday Omoya, said the enforcement was necessary to encourage proper environmental habits.
“The initiative is aimed at encouraging people to take responsibility for their environment. We want everyone to understand the importance of this exercise and fully comply,” Omoya said.
He warned that anyone found outdoors without a valid reason during restricted hours would face appropriate sanctions.
The Director of Environmental Health and Sanitation, Ayodele Aluko, also stressed the link between cleanliness and public well-being.
According to him, “As we pursue growth and development, we must also ensure good health for our people. A clean environment remains fundamental to healthy living.”
Aluko added that clogged drains and polluted surroundings were major contributors to disease outbreaks.
The government reaffirmed its commitment to enforcing sanitation laws and urged residents to comply with future exercises to keep communities clean and healthy.
Under the monthly sanitation exercise, residents are expected to stay indoors for a set period while cleaning their homes and immediate surroundings.
