In a bid to sustain a clean, healthy, and habitable environment, Cross River State Governor, Senator Bassey Edet Otu, has inaugurated a Special Environmental Task Force to bolster the enforcement of environmental laws across the state.
The inauguration ceremony was performed on behalf of the Governor by the State Commissioner for Environment, Obol Moses Osogi, at the Ministry's Conference Hall in Calabar.
According to the Commissioner, the Task Force is mandated to combat environmental nuisances statewide, including indiscriminate waste disposal in drains and along roadsides, illegal structures obstructing vehicular and pedestrian movement, roadside trading, and other environmental violations.
Commissioner Osogi charged members of the Task Force to carry out their duties with wisdom, integrity, and professionalism. He warned against unethical practices, stressing that all enforcement activities must be guided by due process rather than violence.
In his words: "Let the law guide your actions. Be good ambassadors of the Ministry of Environment, Cross River State, and ultimately the Governor, Senator Bassey Edet Otu. Do not engage in any act that will misrepresent the 'Season of Sweetness' administration."
During the inauguration, the Ministry's Legal Adviser, Barr. Daniel Ekpo, outlined the legal framework governing the Task Force's operations. He highlighted the objectives of the relevant environmental laws and reminded members that violations could attract prosecution in accordance with existing regulations.
In his remarks, the Chairman of the Special Environmental Task Force, Mr. Elemi Esebonu, expressed gratitude to the Commissioner for the confidence reposed in him and other members. He assured that the Task Force, under his leadership, would uphold the highest standards of service and work diligently to restore environmental sanity across the state.
A major highlight of the ceremony was the administration of the oath of office to members of the Task Force by the Ministry's Legal Adviser, Barr. Daniel Ekpo, signifying their readiness to commence operations.
The inauguration of the Special Environmental Task Force follows the dissolution of the former Task Force and marks a renewed commitment by the Ministry of Environment to enforce environmental laws, protect public interests, and promote accountability across the state.
The event was attended by the Permanent Secretary, Mrs. Rosemary Onah; the Director of Administration, Ms. Rosemary Ugbeshe; and the Director of Environmental Health and Pollution Control, Mr. Dien Ugumanin, among other senior officials of the Ministry.
By Sylvia Okoi
