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Reps push prohibition of styrofoam and disposable plastic in Nigeria
The House of Representatives has urged the federal government to ban the production, importation, distribution, and use of styrofoam and single-use plastics throughout Nigeria.
The call was sequel to the adoption of a motion by Rep. Muktar Shagaya (APC-Kwara) at plenary on Wednesday.
Earlier, Mr Shagaya said that the provisions of Section 20 of the Constitution place a responsibility on the federal government to protect and improve the environment for present and future generations and ensure the health and well-being of its citizens.
He said that the increasing use of styrofoam and single-use plastics in Nigeria poses significant environmental and public health risks, which include pollution of waterways, soil, and air quality.
The lawmaker said that chemicals found in styrofoam are linked to health issues such as cancer, vision and hearing loss, impaired memory and concentration, and nervous system effects.
“Aware that styrofoam is prohibited in Taiwan, Rwanda, England, and many other European countries, together with some towns and states in the United States. Currently, the product is illegal in Lagos and Abia states.
“Also aware that alternatives to styrofoam and single-use plastics, such as biodegradable materials, reusable containers, and recyclable packaging, can reduce environmental impact and public health risks.
“I am concerned that the increasing use of styrofoam and single-use plastics in Nigeria not only leads to increased plastic waste and environmental pollution but also poses a significant health risk,” he said.
Mr Shagaya said that there is a need to address the environmental and public health crises posed by styrofoam and single-use plastics to safeguard the future of Nigeria’s natural resources, ecosystems, health, and the well-being of its citizens.
The House, however, urged the federal government to implement a phased approach to the ban by providing sufficient time for businesses and industries to transition to alternative eco-friendly materials and practices.
The lawmakers urged the Federal Competition and Consumer Protection Commission (FCCPC) and other relevant agencies to monitor the quality of packaging of foods and beverages, particularly in fast-moving consumer goods (FMCGs).
The green chamber said there is a need to ensure that global best practices are followed and all appropriate regulations guiding the whole process are adhered to.
In his ruling, the deputy speaker, Rep. Benjamin Kalu, mandated the committees on healthcare services, environment, and legislative compliance to ensure compliance.
(NAN)
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Governor Fintiri Pardons Nine Inmates, Commutes Death Sentence to Mark Nigeria’s 66th Independence Anniversary In commemoration of Nigeria’s 66th Independence Day celebration, Governor Ahmadu Umaru Fintiri of Adamawa State has granted pardons to nine inmates serving various terms in correctional facilities across the state. A statement issued by the Chief Press Secretary to the Governor, Humwashi Wonosikou, said the Governor ordered the immediate release of the pardoned inmates, noting that all legal formalities had been concluded with the Nigerian Correctional Service. “The Governor acted on the advice of the Advisory Committee on the Prerogative of Mercy and in exercise of the powers conferred on him by Section 212(1)(d) of the Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, 1999 (as amended),” the statement said. According to the statement, those granted pardon and discharged include Abubakar Dajo, who was serving at the Maximum Security Custodial Centre, Jos; Zabadi Ayuba and Salvation Nyamso, both serving at the Numan Custodial Centre. Others are Amir Idris, Mohammed Saidu, Yaro Sambo, Buhari Salisu, Urube Samuel and Bamaiyi Amos, who were discharged from the Jimeta, Ganye, Guyuk, Yola Old and Kojoli Custodial Centres, respectively. In addition to the pardons, Governor Fintiri approved the commutation of the death sentence imposed on one inmate, Saidu Abdullahi of the Yola Old Custodial Centre, to life imprisonment. The Governor’s action, the statement noted, was in the spirit of the Independence anniversary and reflects the government’s commitment to mercy, justice and the rehabilitation of offenders. The pardons and commutation take immediate effect, the statement added.
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Governor Fintiri Pardons Nine Inmates, Commutes Death Sentence to Mark Nigeria’s 66th Independence Anniversary In commemoration of Nigeria’s 66th Independence Day celebration, Governor Ahmadu Umaru Fintiri of Adamawa State has granted pardons to nine inmates serving various terms in correctional facilities across the state. A statement issued by the Chief Press Secretary to the Governor, Humwashi Wonosikou, said the Governor ordered the immediate release of the pardoned inmates, noting that all legal formalities had been concluded with the Nigerian Correctional Service. “The Governor acted on the advice of the Advisory Committee on the Prerogative of Mercy and in exercise of the powers conferred on him by Section 212(1)(d) of the Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, 1999 (as amended),” the statement said. According to the statement, those granted pardon and discharged include Abubakar Dajo, who was serving at the Maximum Security Custodial Centre, Jos; Zabadi Ayuba and Salvation Nyamso, both serving at the Numan Custodial Centre. Others are Amir Idris, Mohammed Saidu, Yaro Sambo, Buhari Salisu, Urube Samuel and Bamaiyi Amos, who were discharged from the Jimeta, Ganye, Guyuk, Yola Old and Kojoli Custodial Centres, respectively. In addition to the pardons, Governor Fintiri approved the commutation of the death sentence imposed on one inmate, Saidu Abdullahi of the Yola Old Custodial Centre, to life imprisonment. The Governor’s action, the statement noted, was in the spirit of the Independence anniversary and reflects the government’s commitment to mercy, justice and the rehabilitation of offenders. The pardons and commutation take immediate effect, the statement added.
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