Our Reporter
-Three suspects arrested
The authorities of Igbogbo/Baiyeku Local Council Development Area (IBLCDA) have demolished illegal shanties erected along the Offin/Oreta Road corridor and arrested three suspects linked to the structures, as part of a coordinated environmental law enforcement exercise aimed at restoring drainage flow and improving public sanitation.
The operation was carried out on Friday, on the directive of the Executive Chairman, Omo’ba Hammed Olalekan Aroyewun, following reports that the makeshift structures had become centres for indiscriminate waste disposal and activities that obstructed drainage channels along the axis.
Officials of the Environment and Waste Management Department carried out the exercise, which resulted in the complete removal of the illegal structures. The operation was monitored by the Chief of Staff, Hon. Wasiu Olowu; the Councillor representing Ward C3, Hon. Saidat Adeoba Odeyemi; and operatives of the Local Joint Task Force, who provided security throughout the exercise.
Speaking after the demolition, the Head of Department for Environment and Waste Management, Mr. Sunday Adekunle, said the council had received repeated complaints about activities around the shanties.
According to him, occupants of the structures had consistently dumped large quantities of dirt and waste into nearby drainage channels, leading to severe blockage and preventing the free flow of water. He noted that the situation posed a significant flooding risk to surrounding communities and constituted a serious environmental and public health concern.
Also commenting on the exercise, the Supervisor for Environment and Waste Management, Hon. Dauda Oshinlaja, described the intervention as necessary and long overdue. He stated that continuous dumping of refuse and debris had completely obstructed sections of the drainage network along the corridor, making immediate action unavoidable.
Hon. Oshinlaja assured residents that the department would continue to monitor the area to prevent a recurrence and sustain the gains of the exercise. He also urged residents and business operators to support the council’s sanitation efforts through proper waste disposal practices.
During the operation, three individuals identified as being responsible for constructing the illegal shanties were arrested and handed over to the appropriate authorities for further investigation.
In addition, some shops found to be operating in unsanitary conditions were sealed, while several business owners received warnings over environmental violations. The council directed all affected operators to comply fully with environmental regulations or face further sanctions.
Residents and commuters who witnessed the exercise welcomed the intervention, describing it as a timely step towards restoring cleanliness, improving drainage, and enhancing the overall environment along the Offin/Oreta Road corridor.
Reaffirming his administration’s commitment to the Environmental Sustainability and Optimal Wellness pillars of the GLORY Agenda, Chairman Aroyewun said the council would continue to take decisive action against illegal structures, environmental abuse, and activities that threaten public health and community well-being.
He added that the administration remains committed to maintaining a cleaner, safer, and more orderly Igbogbo/Baiyeku for all residents.
The council has assured residents of Offin, Oreta, and adjoining communities that the reopened drainage channels will improve water flow and reduce flooding risks, while its zero-tolerance stance on illegal structures and environmental violations remains firmly in place.
