A’ibom deploys security personnel to enforce environmental laws

In an effort to tackle the issue of illegal waste disposal and other environmental concerns, the Akwa Ibom State Environmental Protection and Waste Management Agency has unveiled plans to assign officers from the Ibom Community Watch to key areas within Uyo. This initiative, set to commence on November 1, supports Governor Umo Eno’s ARISE Agenda aimed at sustainable environmental management.

Dr. Prince Ikim, the agency’s Chairman, announced the initiative during a press conference in Uyo on Tuesday. He highlighted that this deployment follows recent awareness campaigns conducted in partnership with the Ibom Community Watch, a state security group overseen by the Ministry of Internal Security and Waterways, alongside the Nigeria Police and various other security forces.

“Beginning November 1, 2024, officers from the Ibom Community Watch will be positioned along major thoroughfares in the state to enforce environmental regulations,” Ikim stated. He listed specific routes for monitoring, including Nwaniba Road, Four Lanes, Oron Road, Airport Road, Shelter Afrique, Udo Udoma, Ikot Ekpene Road, Stadium Road, IBB Road, Ikpa Road, NEPA Line, Aka Etinan, Idoro Road, Abak Road, Ring 3 Road, Uruan Street, Aka Road, Brooks Street, and Atiku.

He stressed the importance of transitioning from “politicizing” to “securitizing” environmental matters, describing this approach as vital to Governor Eno’s environmental strategy. “Aligned with His Excellency’s ARISE Agenda, we are dedicated to fostering environmental sustainability in Akwa Ibom,” he added.

Ikim also mentioned that the 100 officers designated for this task have undergone extensive retraining in intelligence and enforcement to ensure they perform their roles with professionalism and integrity. He urged community members and stakeholders to collaborate, emphasizing that this initiative is designed to protect public health and enhance the living standards of the people in Akwa Ibom State.