BAYELSA STATE GOVERNMENT MINISTRY OF ENVIROMENT OFFICIAL GOVERNMENT NOTICE ILLEGAL SAND DREDGING AND UNAUTHORIZED TRE

[Abigail pereowei]

The attention of the Bayelsa State Government has been drawn to the activities of certain groups and individuals who have been importing and operating sand dredging equipment within the state without due authorization from the Ministry of Environment.

Government notes with grave concern that these activities pose an imminent danger to the fragile ecosystem, accelerate environmental degradation, and undermine sustainable development efforts. Such violations will no longer be tolerated.

Accordingly, the Government hereby directs that all sand dredging operators must attend a mandatory meeting with the Honourable Commissioner for Environment, Hon. Ebi Ben Ololo, as follows:

Date: Tuesday, 16th September, 2025

Time: 12:00 noon

Venue: Ministry of Environment Conference Room, Yenagoa

Failure to attend this meeting will attract immediate sanctions, including suspension of operations, confiscation of equipment, and prosecution under the Environmental Protection and Management Laws of Bayelsa State.

Furthermore, Government is dismayed at reports of continued illegal logging and tree felling despite previous directives closing all forest areas. For the avoidance of doubt, unauthorized entry into forest reserves and the felling of trees therein remain criminal offenses, punishable under applicable forestry and environmental protection laws.

PUBLIC WARNING

All individuals, companies, and groups engaged in unauthorized dredging and logging activities are hereby warned to desist forthwith. Enforcement teams have been mandated to intensify monitoring, and defaulters will face the full weight of the law without exception.

The Bayelsa State Government remains committed to protecting the environment for present and future generations.

Signed:
Hon. Ebi Ben Ololo
Honourable Commissioner for Environment
Bayelsa State
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