The General Manager of the Kwara State Environmental Protection Agency (KWEPA), Hon. Jide Aina, has issued a firm warning to individuals keeping horses within the Ilorin metropolis, urging them to take full responsibility for the care and control of their animals.
Speaking from his office today following a formal complaint, Hon. Aina expressed concern over the growing menace of stray horses roaming freely on major roads across the state capital.
He described the situation as a serious public safety hazard, noting that such animals could easily cause accidents, some of which may be fatal.“This recurring issue is not only dangerous but entirely unacceptable,” Hon. Aina said.
“Any horse found roaming the streets without proper supervision will be seized, and the owner will be held accountable in accordance with the Environmental Health Laws of Kwara State.”
The General Manager emphasized that negligence on the part of horse owners poses risks not only to road users but also to the broader environmental health of residents.
He warned that such acts are punishable under existing laws and reiterated the agency’s zero-tolerance stance on violations.
KWEPA reaffirmed its commitment to maintaining a clean, safe, and healthy environment for all.
The agency called on all horse owners to strictly adhere to this directive and ensure their animals are properly confined and supervised at all times.
“This is a shared responsibility,” Hon. Aina added. “Safeguarding lives and ensuring orderliness on our roads must never be compromised.”
The agency also encouraged members of the public to report sightings of stray horses and other environmental threats, assuring residents that enforcement efforts will be intensified to eliminate such dangers.
This proactive measure, Hon. Aina noted, aligns with KWEPA’s statutory mandate to protect the environment, promote public safety, and foster a sustainable and healthy living environment across Kwara State.