Aguiyi Charges OCHA Brigade to Step Up Enforcement of Anambra’s Environmental Law

By Staff Reporter

Anambra’s renewed war against environmental degradation is entering a new phase, with Environment Commissioner, Dr Clem Aguiyi, charging OCHA Brigade operatives to intensify enforcement and ensure that the state’s environmental laws are fully obeyed.

Aguiyi gave the charge on Monday during a working visit and facility tour of the Operation Clean and Healthy Anambra (OCHA) Brigade headquarters, describing the operatives as the state’s frontline environmental police.

“You are the environmental police. You must remain on the agenda of your creation,” the Commissioner told the personnel.

He said OCHA Brigade was established by law to enforce environmental regulations and must remain focused on that core responsibility as the state steps up its campaign against environmental degradation.

According to Aguiyi, the Governor’s recent declaration of a state of emergency on the environment has made it necessary for the Ministry of Environment and OCHA Brigade to review their strategies and strengthen enforcement.

He listed environmental sanitation, drainage and run-off water, illegal sand mining and excavation, deforestation, and waste disposal and management in markets, streets and residential areas among the key issues requiring urgent attention.

The Commissioner warned that protecting Anambra’s environment is a demanding responsibility that requires commitment, discipline and professionalism from those entrusted with enforcement.

He consequently charged OCHA operatives to remain dedicated to duty and conduct themselves as worthy representatives of the state government.

Aguiyi also emphasized the importance of accountability and proper identification, directing personnel to wear their official name tags while on duty and maintain exemplary behaviour in their interactions with members of the public.

“The task of protecting our environment is enormous, and it requires dedication, discipline and responsible enforcement,” the Commissioner said.

During the visit, Aguiyi inspected the facilities and received an overview of the brigade’s operations.

The Acting Managing Director of OCHA Brigade, Mr Anthony Agbaefuna, was represented by the Head of Operations, Mr Kenneth Ebochina, who conducted the Commissioner on a tour of the headquarters.

The Commissioner’s visit comes as the state government moves to translate its renewed environmental agenda into stronger enforcement across communities.

From blocked drainage channels and indiscriminate waste disposal to illegal excavation and deforestation, the government’s message is increasingly clear: environmental protection is no longer business as usual in Anambra.

What do you think?

Do you believe stronger enforcement by OCHA Brigade can significantly improve sanitation and environmental compliance across Anambra?

Tell us your view in the comments.

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