Folukemi is a trained journalist, a writer, a social media…
Edo State government on Monday convicted four persons for breaking the noise pollution law.
This was made known by Reginald Okun, the state commissioner for environment and Sustainability during an interview session with newsmen at the state’s capital, Benin City.
He however did not reveal the names of the people involved and the court that convicted them.
He noted the state government is increasing efforts to bring anyone that violates laws on pollution in the state to book.
“We have secured four convictions, with more persons to be charged to court soon,” he said.
The commissioner expressed his dissatisfaction at the people’s attitude towards the noise pollution law, adding that the government will no longer turn a blind eye to law breakers.
- “There was a petition where someone alleged that his children find it difficult to sleep at night because of the noise in his neighborhood, only for the children to go to school to sleep during the day.
“It is sad how people set up external speakers and live bands outdoor, which disturb entire neighborhoods.
“They do all these without considering its adverse effect on the immediate environment. The standard practice for use of speakers in such places, is that they set-up some form of soundproof system to restrict the sound,” he explained.
Okun said mechanisms have been put in place to sensitise and warn the people on the laws and the imitations of breaking them.
“The State government will not relent in warning people to desist from such practice, as we will continue to serve notices to such persons.
“Aside prosecution, we are focusing more efforts on sensitisation as the government takes the issue of noise pollution very seriously. People with external speakers should remove such and endeavour to do the right thing”.
Speaking on the use of siren in the state, he said the state government is working with the Police Command.
“We are making effort to get the Commissioner of Police to get people to understand the proper use of siren, which is in emergency cases. We are also reaching out to the hospital management board to ensure ambulances when ambulances should use sirens,” he said.
Folukemi is a trained journalist, a writer, a social media enthusiast. She believes being happy and fulfilled is not a fairy tale and she is dedicated to helping others find theirs.