Jos, Plateau State – An Area Court in Gyel Bukuru, Jos South LGA has handed down a landmark judgment, sentencing Mahmud Anas and John Yakubu of Pangole market in Bukuru Metropolis to three and the half years in prison with an option of a fine of Five Hundred Thousand Naira, alongside mandatory community service, for assaulting staff of the Plateau State Environmental Protection and Sanitation Agency (PEPSA) during a routine sanitation supervision exercise at the Market.
The incident occurred on Thursday last week when a PEPSA officer cautioned an individual who was improperly disposing of refuse at the market. The situation escalated into an assault, drawing widespread condemnation from stakeholders who described the act as a threat to public order, environmental safety, and ongoing sanitation efforts in the state.
The court ruled that the convicts would serve a prison sentence if they failed to meet the conditions of their sentence, which includes paying the fine and carrying out community service. The convicts exercised the option of a fine and were further required to sign an undertaking committing to good behavior. As part of their corrective measures, they will carry out structured community service through street cleaning activities within Bukuru Market for three consecutive months. Additionally, they have agreed to serve as PEPSA ambassadors for peace and environmental sanitation, supporting awareness efforts and encouraging cooperation with the Agency’s activities.
The court’s judgment sends a strong message against acts of violence, intimidation, or obstruction directed at sanitation officers performing their lawful duties. The ruling underscores the importance of maintaining respect for public officials tasked with enforcing environmental laws and protecting public health across the Plateau State.
The case highlighted previous engagement efforts between sanitation authorities and Bukuru Market leadership, including Sensitization campaigns and the provision of waste collection materials aimed at promoting proper refuse disposal and discouraging illegal dumping.
The agency remains committed to protecting the health and well-being of the people of Plateau State and will continue to work tirelessly to ensure that the state is clean and free from environmental hazards