EDO FORESTRY CHAIRMAN CRACKS DOWN ON ILLEGAL LOGGING, UNVEILS OVERSIGHT MEASURES TO PROTECT FOREST RESOURCES

The Chairman of the Edo State Forestry Commission, Hon. Valentine Asuen, has issued a stern warning to Area Forest Officers and Forest Guards across the state against the exploitation, certification, and endorsement of immature logs, describing the practice as a violation of existing forestry laws that will attract severe disciplinary and legal sanctions.

Asuen gave the warning during a meeting with Area Forest Officers and Forest Guards, where he reaffirmed the Edo State Government's commitment to strengthening sustainable forest management and ensuring strict compliance with regulations governing forestry operations.

Addressing the officers, the Forestry Chairman emphasized that the harvesting, endorsement, or hammering of immature logs is expressly prohibited under the state's forestry guidelines. He noted that such practices undermine environmental conservation efforts and pose a significant threat to the long-term sustainability of Edo State's forest reserves.

He warned that any forestry personnel found to have aided, approved, or participated in the exploitation of immature logs would face appropriate sanctions in line with relevant forestry laws, civil service regulations, and other applicable statutes.

As part of measures aimed at strengthening accountability within the sector, Asuen announced the constitution of a monitoring committee to oversee the activities of forestry personnel across the state and ensure strict adherence to operational standards and statutory provisions.

According to him, the committee will monitor field operations, assess compliance with approved procedures, and report any infractions for prompt disciplinary action. He noted that the initiative is designed to restore professionalism, transparency, and integrity within the forestry administration.

The Chairman further charged Area Forest Officers and Forest Guards to discharge their duties with diligence, transparency, and a strong sense of responsibility, stressing that they serve as critical custodians of the state's forest resources.

He also urged officers to intensify surveillance and strengthen enforcement efforts within their respective jurisdictions to curb illegal logging activities and protect government forest assets from depletion and environmental degradation.

Agadagodo, Ehis John

PRO, Edo Forestry Commission

Photo Caption

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Edo State Forest Commission Chairman, Hon. Valentine Asuen and the Director, Forest Management and Utilization, Mrs. Esther Uwoghiren during the meeting with Forest Officers