Fayemi To Clamp Down On Illegal Lumbering

IN order to protect the environment from climate and ecological problems, Ekiti State Government has pledged to stop illegal deforestation of the state's forest reserves.It warned people engaged in illegal lumbering to desist or face the wrath of the law as the state has set up a special committee to ensure adequate protection of its forest reserves.The governor, Dr. Kayode Fayemi, who made this known during a town hall meeting at Ise-Orun local government area, said his administration is committed to protecting the forests and the environment from climate and ecological damage, which could arise from the practice.He said: 'Afforestation is a critical issue for us in this governmentbecause we want a sustainable environment that is protected from the effects of climate change. And if we have all our timbers pulled down by unscrupulous elements, then the tiny cover that the forests provide will not be there.'He called on traditional rulers and people of the state to support government in its attempt to curb illegal lumbering.Meanwhile, as part of his administration's vision for infrastructural development, the governor has also flagged off construction of Ise-Ijan road.The road was terminated and re-awarded by the previous administration but was later abandoned by the contractor handling the project.Flagging off the construction of the road, Fayemi said the road would not only provide succour for the people of Gbonyin and Ise-Orun local governments but would also facilitate easy transportation of farm produce in that part of the state and actualise the goal of his administration at generating 50 per cent of itsInternally Generated Revenue (IGR) from the agricultural sector.He urged the contractor to ensure strict adherence to specifications. The road is expected to be completed within 10 months.
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