The Abia State Environmental Protection Agency, ASEPA, has taken action against a piggery farm in Ipupe, Umuahia South LGA, and a residential building in Agbama Housing Estate, sealing both locations for alleged environmental pollution. The piggery farm was fined N2.5m for operating without an appropriate permit and not taking precautions to prevent infectious disease outbreaks. ASEPA's actions aim to enforce environmental laws and prevent disease outbreaks.
The sealing exercises were carried out by ASEPA's General Manager, Ogbonnaya Okereke, who was represented by the agency's Head of Monitoring, Okpara Macaulay. Okereke stated that the offenders' actions contravened basic environmental laws in Abia State. An environmental Court in Umuahia authorised the sealing of the compounds, with the Presiding Magistrate, O.C. Ibekwe, issuing the sealing order.
According to ASEPA, the piggery farm's owner failed to obtain the necessary operational permit and did not take precautions to prevent infectious disease outbreaks. The agency expressed concerns that the farm's location could pose a risk to public health. Additionally, the occupants of a three-storey building at Area 5, Agbama Housing Estate, were allegedly discharging their excreta into public drains, which could constitute a health hazard.
The sealed residential building is located in a densely populated area, and ASEPA's actions aim to prevent the spread of diseases. The agency warned that it will not hesitate to take action against anyone or any facility that refuses to comply with environmental laws. ASEPA emphasised the importance of following environmental regulations to ensure public health and safety.
ASEPA's General Manager, Ogbonnaya Okereke, advised operators of piggeries to approach government agencies for approval and follow provided precautions. He also urged residents to ensure their septic tanks are in good condition to prevent environmental pollution. The agency's actions demonstrate its commitment to enforcing environmental laws and protecting public health.
The sealing of the piggery farm and residential building is part of ASEPA's efforts to address environmental concerns in Abia State. The agency will continue to monitor and enforce environmental laws to prevent disease outbreaks and ensure good health for all residents. ASEPA's actions have been authorised by the environmental Court in Umuahia.
The Abia State government's efforts to address environmental pollution have been welcomed by residents, who are calling for more action to be taken to protect public health. The sealing of the piggery farm and residential building serves as a warning to others who may be non-compliant with environmental laws. ASEPA will continue to work to prevent environmental pollution and promote public health in Abia State.
Key points
- ASEPA seals piggery farm and residential building for alleged environmental pollution
- Environmental Court authorises sealing of compounds for contravening environmental laws
- ASEPA warns of continued action against non-compliant facilities and individuals
