Olufunke Aladejare
The Ekiti State Government (EKSG) has prosecuted 55 people for violating environmental sanitation regulations during February’s monthly clean-up exercise.
Officials said those arrested during the restricted sanitation hours were taken before magistrates, where 54 were fined and one was pardoned.
The exercise, held across the state, requires residents to remain indoors for a specified period while they clean their surroundings.
Monitoring compliance in Ado-Ekiti, the Permanent Secretary in the Ministry of Environment and Natural Resources, Sunday Omoya, said the initiative was aimed at encouraging people to take responsibility for their environment.
“We want to ensure that everyone understands the importance and purpose of this exercise and fully complies,” he said.
He warned that anyone found on the streets without a legitimate reason during the restricted hours would face sanctions.
The Director of Environmental Health and Sanitation, Ayodele Aluko, said there was a strong link between environmental cleanliness and public health.
“As we pursue growth and development, we must also ensure good health for our people. A clean environment remains fundamental to healthy living,” he said.
Aluko added that blocked drainage systems and polluted surroundings were major contributors to disease outbreaks.
The government said it would continue to enforce sanitation laws and urged residents to comply with future exercises to help maintain a cleaner and healthier environment.
