Bauchi State Governor, Bala Mohammed, has enacted three executive orders to safeguard consumer rights, the environment, and public infrastructure. These measures are part of a broader initiative to address critical issues affecting the state.
The first executive order focuses on community and environmental protection, public safety, and security. A significant component of this order is the prohibition of deforestation, aimed at tackling the widespread issue of illegal tree felling.
Governor Mohammed emphasized the importance of this measure for security and environmental preservation, citing the detrimental impact of activities such as charcoal production, bush burning, and unauthorized tree cutting.
He underscored the involvement of forestry officers and local authorities in these illicit activities and highlighted the new law’s provisions for prosecution to ensure strict enforcement.
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A second part of Executive Order No. 2 addresses consumer protection by mandating a standardized system of weights and measures across Bauchi State.
This initiative aims to eliminate the inconsistent and deceptive practices prevalent among traders who use varying sizes of measures (‘mudu’) to cheat consumers.
Governor Mohammed noted the exploitation faced by consumers due to these discrepancies and announced the introduction of a single, acceptable measure to be distributed statewide. Traders who continue to use old, non-standard measures will face prosecution for defrauding consumers.
The third executive order bans the issuance of permits for the construction of illegal structures along road corridors, green areas, rights-of-way, utility areas, and setbacks.
This measure seeks to address the encroachment on road corridors, which poses significant security and environmental risks. The governor pointed out that such encroachments often serve as hideouts for criminal elements, including bandits and terrorists.
In response, the government will provide alternative locations for affected traders to relocate their businesses, ensuring compliance with the new regulations.
Governor Mohammed has pledged to rigorously enforce these executive orders, promising legal action against individuals or businesses that violate the new regulations.
These measures reflect his administration’s commitment to improving public safety, environmental sustainability, and consumer protection in Bauchi State.
These executive orders signify a decisive step towards enhancing the quality of life in Bauchi State, addressing long-standing issues related to environmental degradation, consumer rights, and the misuse of public infrastructure.
