…violators to face prosecution from January 1
Bayelsa State Government has announced a sweeping ban on the movement of timber, forest products, and all forms of sand and land dredging across the state, as part of a renewed effort to tackle environmental degradation and protect natural resources.
In a statement issued by the Commissioner for Environment, Hon. Ebi Ben Ololo, the government said the ban takes effect from January 1, 2026, and applies to all land and maritime routes within and around the state. The directive prohibits the transportation, conveyance, and trade of wood, timber, and forest products within, into, out of, or through Bayelsa.
According to the statement, the restriction covers all roads, waterways, creeks, rivers, jetties and coastal zones, with no exceptions granted.
“These measures form part of the Bayelsa State Government’s sustained commitment to environmental protection, conservation of forest and aquatic resources, prevention of ecological degradation, and the eradication of illegal logging and unauthorised dredging activities,” Ololo said.
The ban also extends to sand dredging and land dredging, which the government said must cease immediately in New Yenagoa City. Operators in other parts of the state are required to halt activities from January 1 and seek proper approval before resuming operations.
The ministry warned that anyone caught violating the directive including individuals, transporters, companies, traditional rulers or community leaders aiding illegal operations will be arrested and prosecuted under state laws. The government stressed that no exemptions will be granted.
To ensure compliance, security agencies and other enforcement bodies have been deployed to monitor activities across the state.
Environmental advocates have long raised concerns about the impact of logging and dredging on Bayelsa’s fragile ecosystem, with many communities experiencing erosion, flooding and loss of biodiversity.
The government urged residents and operators to support the initiative, saying the measures are aimed at safeguarding the state for present and future generations.
