Stephen Ukandu, Umuahia
The Abia State Environmental Protection Agency (ASEPA) has denied any link to an individual accused of attacking a resident with a machete during an environmental enforcement operation in Umuahia, stressing that the suspect is not a member of its task force.
The agency’s Deputy General Manager for the Umuahia Zone, Catechist Ambrose Jonah, clarified the matter on Monday while addressing journalists at a press briefing in the state capital.
Jonah condemned the incident in strong terms, describing the attack as illegal and inconsistent with ASEPA’s code of conduct and standard operating procedures.
He explained that the suspect acted without the agency’s knowledge or approval, noting that ASEPA does not arm its operatives nor permit the use of weapons during enforcement exercises.
“The individual involved acted outside our mandate and must take responsibility for his actions. ASEPA does not authorise the carrying or use of offensive weapons by its personnel,” Jonah said.
He added that the suspect has been handed over to the police for investigation and possible prosecution.
As part of measures to calm public tension and prevent a recurrence, Jonah announced that the agency has dissolved its monitoring team in the Umuahia Zone. According to him, only a small number of officers with proven integrity and commendable service records have been retained.
The ASEPA official decried the frequent hostility and attacks faced by enforcement officers in the course of their duties and appealed to residents to cooperate with the agency. However, he emphasised that no form of provocation or resistance can justify violence.
Jonah also disclosed that environmental mobile courts have been activated to prosecute offenders who violate environmental laws in the state.
Reiterating ASEPA’s commitment to maintaining a clean and healthy environment, he assured that the agency would continue to operate within the confines of the law, adopting peaceful and community-oriented approaches.
He called on residents to support government efforts aimed at improving sanitation and environmental order in Umuahia.
Responding to questions, Jonah reaffirmed that the ban on cattle grazing and the roaming of cows within the Umuahia metropolis remains in force.
He warned herders and cattle owners to keep their animals off major roads and streets in the city, including the Enugu–Port Harcourt Expressway, or face appropriate sanctions.
The ASEPA Deputy General Manager stated that the state would no longer tolerate cattle rearers using their livestock in ways that inflict economic harm on other citizens.
