Edo State Government has reiterated its commitment towards ensuring the state Forest Estate is preserved and protected.
The Commissioner for Environment and Sustainability, Engr. Jonathan Lawani made this known in Benin City following the arrest of three suspected illegal loggers who were caught trying to cut down logs at Irue Community , Ehor, Uhunwonde Local Government Area of the state.
Engr. Lawani explained that about eighteen stumps of immature Gmelina Aborea species were destroyed by the suspects.
According to him, the forest in Irue Community where they committed the havoc is where the State Government in collaboration with Benadette Strabel have been carrying out regeneration, a project tagged ” One Million Trees ” and over a hundred hectares have been cultivated.
He noted that the State Government is putting measures in place to ensure the forest reserves are regenerated, conserved and protected.
He appealed to residents in the state to desist from illegal logging, adding that anyone caught will be prosecuted according to the laws of the state.
Engr. Lawani who frowned at the illegal activities carried out in the forest reserves said the arrest of three suspects will serve as a deterrent to others who want to exploit the forest.
The three suspects have since been handed over to the police for prosecution.
