A joint enforcement team led by the Oyo State Government has carried out a major clearance operation against illegal fuel merchants operating around the toll gate axis of the Lagos-Ibadan Expressway.
The exercise, conducted by the Oyo State Rule of Law Enforcement Authority (OYRLEA) in collaboration with other security agencies, led to the discovery and impoundment of several litres of illegally stored petroleum products.
The operation was led by the Executive Assistant to the Governor on Security Matters, CP Sunday Odukoya (rtd.), alongside the Executive Adviser to the Governor on Rule of Law Enforcement, CP Sonubi Ayodele Olufemi (Rtd.).
Other officials present during the exercise included the Chairman of the Environmental Task Force, DCP Francis Ojomo, and the Chief of Staff to the OYRLEA Chairperson, Iyabode Akinbode (Esq.).
According to the authorities, the enforcement action was aimed at curbing the illegal trading and storage of petroleum products along major highways, a practice considered dangerous to motorists, residents and the environment.
During the operation, enforcement officers discovered dozens of litres of Premium Motor Spirit (PMS) and diesel stored in 25-litre kegs and large drums.
Several empty barrels and containers believed to be used for the illegal storage and sale of petroleum products were also found at the site.
The petroleum products were impounded while the empty containers were destroyed on the spot.
Speaking during the operation, Odukoya and Sonubi condemned the activities of illegal fuel traders, warning that the Oyo State Government would not tolerate practices that endanger public safety and environmental health.
They noted that illegal storage and roadside sale of petroleum products pose serious fire hazards and contribute to environmental pollution, especially along busy transport corridors.
The OYRLEA also directed owners of the impounded items to report to its office within seven days for proper identification and documentation, warning that failure to do so would lead to forfeiture of the items to the Oyo State Government.
Officials disclosed that the suspected operators were not present at the location during the exercise.
However, they stressed that enforcement operations would continue until such activities are completely eliminated.
Residents and members of the public were also urged to refrain from engaging in illegal fuel trading and other criminal acts, while encouraging them to report suspicious activities to relevant authorities.
The clearance operation involved personnel from the Oyo State Road Traffic Management Authority (OYRTMA), the Oyo State Ministry of Environment and Natural Resources, OYRLEA, the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC), the Oyo State Environmental Task Force, Amotekun Corps, the Nigeria Police Force and the Nigerian Army.
The state government reaffirmed its commitment to sustaining enforcement efforts aimed at maintaining safety, order and environmental compliance across Oyo State.