The Edo State Waste Management Board has announced plans to commence the confiscation of goods displayed by traders operating on pedestrian walkways, as well as the prosecution of individuals caught dumping refuse on road medians across the state.

Managing Director of the board, Dr. Lucky Enehita-Inegbenehi, disclosed that the enforcement action follows the expiration of a seven-day ultimatum earlier issued to offenders engaged in the two practices.

He stated that indiscriminate trading on walkways and illegal refuse disposal contribute significantly to environmental degradation, obstruction of traffic, flooding, and serious public health concerns.

According to Enehita-Inegbenehi, the Edo State Sanitation and Pollution Management Law of 2025 prohibits traders, shop owners, market women, residents, and other members of the public from conducting business on roads and pedestrian walkways or dumping waste in unauthorized locations.

He warned that violators would be prosecuted through the State Sanitation Mobile Court.

“Public roads, medians, and walkways are not marketplaces or dumping grounds,” he said.

The board boss urged residents and business operators to embrace proper waste disposal practices by using designated waste collection points and engaging registered waste managers for refuse evacuation.

To strengthen waste management efforts, the state government, he said, has established multiple dumpsites and deployed roller bins across Benin City and other parts of Edo State. He advised market operators to dispose of waste only at approved dump locations, while pedestrians and road users were encouraged to make use of the roller bins provided.

In a related development, Enehita-Inegbenehi held a strategic meeting with members of the Environmental Sanitation Corps (ESC) aimed at reinforcing discipline, professionalism, and operational efficiency.

He revealed that the board has also introduced a two-shift operational system for the ESC to improve environmental monitoring, surveillance of black spots, and supervision of road medians within the metropolis.

“Our waste is not flowers meant for decorating our medians,” he remarked, reiterating the government’s position that road medians must not be used as refuse dumps.

The Edo State Government further appealed to residents to support ongoing efforts to maintain a cleaner, safer, and healthier environment through responsible sanitation practices.