The Oyo State Government has stepped up enforcement measures aimed at protecting residents from unsafe food practices, unlawful production activities and environmental pollution across the state.
The government said the measures are part of its broader efforts to safeguard public health and ensure that businesses operating in the state comply with relevant health and environmental regulations.
Through its health authorities, the state has continued to monitor food-related activities and take action against practices considered dangerous to consumers. In one recent enforcement exercise, officials intercepted and confiscated baskets of chemically ripened mangoes prepared for sale to unsuspecting members of the public.
The Commissioner for Health, Dr Oluwaserimi Ajetunmobi, urged residents to pay greater attention to the source and condition of food products before consumption. She warned that the improper use of chemicals to preserve or accelerate the ripening of food could expose consumers to health risks.
The state’s environmental authorities have also intensified inspections of businesses whose activities may negatively affect surrounding communities.
As part of the enforcement drive, the Ministry of Environment and Natural Resources sealed a food-processing facility in the Wofun area of Ibadan after officials found that its boiler was releasing excessive carbon soot into the atmosphere.
According to the ministry, the emissions were inconsistent with established environmental standards and posed potential health concerns for people living around the facility. The operator was directed to carry out technical repairs and other corrective measures before the premises could be reopened.
The government has stressed that businesses must comply with environmental requirements and avoid activities capable of contributing to air pollution, improper waste disposal and other forms of environmental degradation.
Authorities have also been enforcing regulations against illegal scavenging and other activities considered harmful to public safety and the environment. The state recently reported the prosecution and fines of 19 illegal scavengers apprehended within Ibadan metropolis.
Officials said the enforcement activities would continue, with relevant agencies expected to monitor compliance and take appropriate action against individuals or businesses that violate existing regulations.
The government has urged residents to cooperate with enforcement officials and report activities that could endanger public health or damage the environment.
The renewed enforcement reflects the state’s stated commitment to improving food safety, controlling pollution and promoting a cleaner and healthier environment for residents.
