PEPSA Steps Up Enforcement of Environmental Laws During Monthly Sanitation Exercise
By Peter Azi – Jos
The Plateau State Environmental and Sanitation Agency (PEPSA) has intensified efforts to enforce environmental laws during the monthly sanitation exercise in Jos. The agency’s enforcement team visited several areas, including Gangare, Yandoya, Dilimi, Filin Ball, Nassarawa, and Angwan Rukuba.
Despite the exercise, compliance was low in most areas visited, with many residents failing to adhere to sanitation laws.
The agency’s Director of Administration, Mr. Dauda Pate Izang, attributed the low compliance to some people’s misconception that the government is using force to clean their environment.
Izang appreciated the security agencies, magistrates, and journalists for their collaboration during the exercise. He also thanked the Executive Chairman of Jos North Local Government Council, Hon. Barr. J.K Chris, for supervising the exercise.
The Director of Enforcement, Mr. Pam Barnabas Dalyop, urged residents to comply with sanitation laws, emphasizing that sanitation is key to public health. He noted that the agency would continue to enforce the laws on defaulters who refuse to adhere to them.
The Magistrate with the Plateau State Government, Deborah Abok Nyam, said that several defaulters were arrested and would be prosecuted accordingly. She also reported that 10 commercial motorcycles were impounded for violating the law banning their operation in Jos and Bukuru Metropolis.
Abok appealed to citizens to adopt good hygiene habits, especially with the onset of the rainy season. She emphasized that PEPSA has been doing well in sensitizing the public about sanitation laws and exercises.
Unlike in the past, PEPSA is now preparing ahead of time, dispatching staff and security agencies to strategic areas for enforcement. This proactive approach aims to ensure compliance and promote a cleaner environment.
