Govt Cracks Down on Sanitation Violators in Yenagoa, Arrests 30

The Bayelsa State Environmental Sanitation Authority has arrested 30 persons and impounded over 10 vehicles for violating sanitation laws during the April environmental sanitation exercise in Yenagoa.

The enforcement operation was led by the Chairman of the Authority, Timothy Diekivie Itiedu, alongside the Permanent Secretary, Ifiemi Ikoko, as the team monitored compliance across the state capital.  The exercise targeted illegal vehicular movement and residents who failed to observe sanitation regulations during the restricted period.  

At Ekeki Transportation Park, the Chairman directed transport workers and traders to immediately clean their surroundings and restore order within the facility. He criticised the park management over poor hygiene conditions, citing indiscriminate waste disposal and widespread littering, while assuring that overflowing refuse bins would be evacuated.  The Park Chairman, Tekena Timikiegha, commended the sanitation team and pledged improved compliance. He also appealed for the provision of hand gloves and nose masks for workers.  At Opolo Market, the situation was more difficult as traders were found carrying out full business activities during the sanitation hours.

The Chairman ordered the seizure of goods, noting that previous warnings had been ignored. Defaulting traders were made to clear blocked and littered roads under supervision.  Vehicles found loading passengers or moving during the exercise were impounded, while offenders were arrested on the spot.  At Igbogene Toll Gate along the Bayelsa-Rivers border, the Chairman investigated reports of incoming vehicular movement.

However, ASP Ubi Abami clarified that all vehicles were held at the boundary until the restriction ended at 10:00 a.m.  

The Authority said all 30 violators and owners of impounded vehicles will be arraigned before the Sanitation Court at the Magistrate Court, Fire Service, Yenagoa.  

The monthly sanitation exercise is held every last Saturday, with movement restricted between 7:00 a.m. and 10:00 a.m.