Authorities in Taraba State have stepped up efforts to combat environmental degradation, with the state’s mobile court sealing multiple illegal charcoal depots across Wukari Local Government Area.
The enforcement operation, carried out on Tuesday, targeted affected communities in Nakambo, Mahanga, and Bantaje villages.
The exercise, DAILY POST reports, forms part of a broader statewide patrol aimed at implementing Executive Order No. 5 of 2023, which focuses on environmental protection and the prohibition of deforestation.
During the operation, officials were observed shutting down several charcoal processing sites operating in violation of the law and confiscating large quantities of charcoal.
No arrests were made at the time of filing this report, as suspects reportedly fled before the arrival of enforcement officers, allegedly after receiving advance warning of the patrol.
Authorities have since issued warrants for the arrest of the alleged operators, who are believed to have originated from Zamfara, Kano, and Bauchi states.
Officials noted that the crackdown is necessary, as charcoal production remains a major contributor to deforestation in Taraba.
The unchecked felling of trees for fuel, according to the taskforce, has accelerated environmental degradation, reduced biodiversity, and heightened the state’s vulnerability to climate change and desertification.
Residents have been urged to report illegal logging and charcoal activities, as the government intensifies efforts to safeguard natural resources for future generations.
Eze Chidiebere Paul
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