The Niger State Government has confiscated about 33 trucks loaded with 518 bags of charcoal suspected to be produce of illegal tree felling in the state.
The Secretary to the State Government, Ahmed Matane, disclosed this in a statement in Minna on Saturday.
He warned that the government would not hesitate to deal decisively with anyone caught engaging in such indiscriminate act.
Matane said in spite of efforts by the present administration to fight the trend, there were few unscrupulous elements undermining such efforts.
“Government would leave no stone unturned in ensuring the protection of the forests in the state,” he said.
He said that soil erosion, desertification and land degradation were some of the challenges faced by the people as a result of indiscriminate felling of trees.
Matane said the act of felling of trees in the name of timber and charcoal remained a threat to the community.
He called on the Ministry of the Environment and the Task Force Committee on Forest Exploitation in the state to intensify effort towards putting an end to this unfortunate incident.
Matane appealed to Niger people to report the activities of unscrupulous timber and charcoal vendors to security agencies for necessary action.
Trending
- Alleged defilement of girlfriend: 23-year-old student freed after two years
- We’re not aware of any BoT in Labour Party — NEC
- Anambra police station attacked, set ablaze
- National Convention: We gave INEC over 100 days notice – LP
- Naira falls against dollar by 0.7%
- Delta Killings: Traditional ruler declared wanted surrenders self
- 3rd Mainland Bridge: Minister gives date for full reopening
- Eve’s Desire: Challenges of a loveless marriage, by Tiwa Says