By Simeon OSAJIE
The Edo State Waste Management Board, (EWMB), has entered a strategic partnership with the Vigilante Group of Nigeria, (VGN), Edo State Command, to strengthen enforcement against indiscriminate waste disposal across the state.
The collaboration was sealed during a meeting held at the VGN’S headquarters in Benin, the state capital, as part of renewed efforts by the Okpebholo administration to keep Edo clean, healthy, and environmentally sustainable.
Speaking at the meeting, the Managing Director of EWMB, Amb. Dr. Lucky Enehita-Inegbenehi, said the vision of Governor Monday Okpebholo, is to make Edo State the cleanest state in the country.
He noted that achieving this requires strong enforcement, community involvement, and a change in attitude toward waste disposal.
Dr. Enehita-Inegbenehi explained that the partnership with VGN is a deliberate step toward that goal. He said the vigilante group will work with EWMB officials to monitor black spots, educate residents, and apprehend those caught dumping refuse in unauthorized places, especially in markets, roadsides, and drainages.
The Managing Director stressed that indiscriminate waste disposal remains a major threat to public health and the environment, often leading to blocked drains, flooding, and disease outbreaks during the rainy season.
Background checks show that despite the provision of waste collection services by EWMB, poor disposal habits persist in some parts of the state. Environmental stakeholders say enforcement and continuous sensitization are critical to changing the narrative and sustaining a clean environment.
Dr. Enehita-Inegbenehi therefore called on residents to take responsibility for their environment and to support government efforts by disposing of waste properly.
He assured that EWMB, in collaboration with security and community groups, will intensify advocacy and enforcement across the 18 LGAs to ensure compliance.