ONA ARA LG ENVIRONMENTAL HEALTH OFFICERS DEMOLISH ILLEGAL STRUCTURES AT ARIYO RIVER BANKS, AKANRAN.

A team of Environmental Health Officers from Ona Ara Local Government has carried out the demolition of illegal structures erected along the banks of the Ariyo River at Ariyo Junction, Akanran, Ibadan. The exercise was led by the Acting Head of Local Government Administration, Sanitarian (Mrs.) Rashidat Popoola; the Acting Director of Environmental Health Services, Inukan LCDA, Sanitarian (Mrs.) Layinka Olubunmi; and Sanitarian Jimoh Sikiru. The Honourable Supervisor for Environment and officers of the Amotekun security outfit from the Akanran Division monitored the operation.

Prior to the demolition, the illegal occupants were served with abatement notices instructing them to vacate the area. However, their failure to comply necessitated the enforcement action. This clearance is part of the preparatory measures for the construction of the new Ariyo Bridge, a strategic infrastructure project aimed at curbing the recurrent flooding that has long plagued the area.

To ensure transparency and community cooperation, the Chairman of Ona Ara Local Government, Hon. (Dr.) Temitope Kolapo Glorious, and the Political Head of Inukan LCDA, Hon. Windapo, held engagements with local stakeholders to gain their support before proceeding.

Structures built along riverbanks not only violate environmental regulations but also contribute to severe risks such as flooding, erosion, and damage to both the environment and human lives. In line with the Oyo State Environmental Sanitation Edicts of 2013, such developments are deemed unlawful, and the government remains committed to enforcing the laws to safeguard public health, safety, and the ecosystem.