Human Rights group urges Ebonyi to evaluation new environmental legislation earlier than enforcement

The Committee for the Defence of Human Rights, CDHR, has called on the Ebonyi State Commissioner for Environment, Hon. Victor Chukwu, to reconsider and review a recently announced environmental law before its enforcement in the state capital, Abakaliki.

In a circular released by the Ministry of Environment and shared on the commissioner’s official Facebook page, it was announced that individuals found dumping refuse outside the designated hours of 5 am to 8 am would face a fine of N100,000.

Reacting to the directive, the secretary of CDHR in Ebonyi State, Deacon Onyibe Jeremiah, issued a statement expressing concern over the practicality and fairness of the law. According to him, the directive poses significant challenges for residents.

“We have taken note of a circular from the Ebonyi State Ministry of Environment, announcing a fine of N100,000 for individuals who dump refuse outside the hours of 5 am to 8 am. We find this directive problematic for two primary reasons,” Jeremiah stated.

“Firstly, the stipulated hours coincide with the time when most residents are preparing for work and managing household responsibilities, making it impractical for many to comply. Secondly, the imposition of such a substantial fine without prior sensitisation or public education is unfair and contrary to the ‘People’s Charter of Needs’ mantra of His Excellency, Rt Hon. Francis Ogbonna Nwifuru, the Governor of Ebonyi State.”

The group emphasised that laws must be implemented in a way that supports and educates the public, rather than penalising them without due awareness.

“Given the literacy levels in our state, it is essential to ensure that all Ebonyians are properly informed about the law before its enforcement. Laws should guide and protect citizens, not unduly punish them,” the statement added.

CDHR called for a more inclusive approach and urged the Ministry of Environment to embark on a comprehensive sensitisation campaign to educate residents on the new policy before enforcing penalties.

“By taking this approach, the government can promote environmental responsibility while upholding the rights and dignity of citizens,” Jeremiah concluded.