The Kaduna Environmental Protection Authority (KEPA) has intensified its enforcement of waste management laws with the launch of a mobile court tour targeting companies across the state for non-compliance.
The initiative seeks to ensure all corporate organizations register and engage licensed waste contractors, with Ecoblue designated as the sole authorized service provider for waste disposal in Kaduna State.
During the latest enforcement round, the mobile court visited several firms, including Sapphire, Rittys, FCMB, Synlab, Mussafir Hotel, and United Surgical Ltd, issuing fines and sanctions for various breaches of KEPA regulations.
At Sapphire, the court imposed a fine of ₦150,000, payable before the next adjourned hearing.
Rittys, located at No. 26 Maiduguri Road, was accused of refusing to use Ecoblue, contrary to KEPA’s directive. The company denied the allegation, claiming it uses another waste management firm licensed by KEPA.
KEPA Warns Against Unlicensed Waste Evacuators
However, officials maintained that only Ecoblue is currently authorized to operate within the state to curb indiscriminate waste dumping.
“Unlicensed waste evacuators often dispose of refuse indiscriminately, blocking drains and polluting waterways. Authorizing a single service provider ensures proper waste handling and protects public health,” a KEPA official explained.
First City Monument Bank (FCMB) was fined ₦50,000 for not engaging a registered waste contractor, while Synlab faced a similar penalty of ₦50,000, alongside an additional ₦30,000 imposed on a staff member for contempt of court.
Mussafir Hotel was handed a ₦500,000 fine for employing an unauthorized waste management team, underscoring KEPA’s strict stance on environmental violations.
United Surgical Ltd received a ₦500,000 fine for using unlicensed waste disposal personnel, plus an extra ₦50,000 for obstructing court officials during inspection. The company argued it was not properly notified, but the court upheld the charges.
KEPA Acting General Manager, Yahaya Yakubu Victor, said the mobile court tour would continue across Kaduna State to ensure full compliance with environmental laws and promote sustainable waste management practices.
“Our aim is not just to penalize violators but to protect the environment and public health through strict enforcement and awareness,” Victor stated.
