Executive Governor of Taraba State Expands Environmental Protection Measures

Representing a pioneering endeavor aimed at enhancing environmental conservation, ensuring public safety, and curbing deforestation, Dr. Agbu Kefas, the Executive Governor of Taraba State, has signed into law Executive Order No. 5 on Environmental Protection, Public Safety, and Prohibition of Deforestation. The order, signed on August 23, 2023, serves to amplify the authority and purview of the Task Force and Mobile Court responsible for overseeing these critical facets within the state.

The preamble of the executive order underscores the Governor's jurisdiction over lands in the state, entrusted for the collective benefit of the citizens. It further reaffirms the government's primary responsibility, as stipulated in Section 14(2)(b) of the Constitution, 1999 (as amended), to safeguard lives, property, and the environment. The order underscores the urgency of addressing pressing concerns including excavation-related land degradation, deforestation, soil erosion, water contamination, and biodiversity loss, all of which pose significant threats to the state's ecological balance.

By virtue of the executive order, a Special Taskforce comprising reputable security personnel and individuals of demonstrated integrity will be established. This task force is duly empowered to conduct comprehensive patrols throughout the state, apprehend offenders, and present them before the newly constituted Taraba State Mobile Court on Environmental Protection, Public Safety, and Prohibition of Deforestation. Headed by a Chief Magistrate with a substantial legal background, the Mobile Court will encompass an array of officers, including a Registrar, Court Bailiff, Prosecutors, and armed Security personnel.

The Mobile Court's purview extends to the expeditious adjudication of cases related to environmental degradation, unauthorized land excavation, and deforestation. Significantly, the court is imbued with the flexibility to traverse geographical locations, ensuring accessibility to justice, even in remote areas. The court operates round the clock as the need arises, aligning with the urgency of addressing environmental infractions.

Of note, is the explicit authorization granted to private individuals and security officers to apprehend offenders committing or having committed offenses under the order. Such individuals will be promptly presented for prosecution in accordance with the stipulations of the executive order.

Importantly, the executive order confers immunity upon officers of the Mobile Court and individuals authorized to execute its mandates, safeguarding them from legal action when carrying out their lawful duties. Furthermore, the order prescribes penalties for entities found in violation of its provisions, aligned with the Environmental Impact Assessment Act. Obstruction or assault of Mobile Court officers is met with stringent penalties, including substantial fines or imprisonment.

The executive order culminates with an elucidation of key terms, including "Mobile Court" and "state," and formally assumes the appellation, "Taraba State Executive Order No. 5 of 2023 on Environmental Protection, Public Safety, and Prohibition of Deforestation in the State."

All actions conducted under Executive Order No. 3 of 2023 are validated and preserved under this new order. The order, signed by Dr. Agbu Kefas signals a resolute commitment to addressing environmental challenges and safeguarding the well-being of Taraba State's inhabitants.