The Enugu State Government has directed that industrial gas emission levies collected by consultants engaged by the Ministry of Education and Climate Change must be refunded to the payers without delay.
A press statement on Wednesday signed by the Secretary to the State, Professor Chidiebere Onyia, states that the consultants’ contract had been terminated effective since Thursday 29th August, 2024.
The SSG explained that although the Ministry acted in accordance to the provisions of Section 4 (2) and Section 124 of the Enugu State Environmental and Climate Protection Law, 2024, which covers the enforcement of environmental laws, as well as Section 125 of the Law, which provides for fines over obnoxious gaseous emissions into the environment, the levies and enforcements are premature as the necessary groundwork and infrastructure are yet to be put in place.
“Recent reports have highlighted the collection of levies on alternative energy sources by consultants engaged by the Ministry of Environment and Climate Change.”
“After reviewing the matter, the State Government directed the immediate cessation of this levy collection process and the termination of the consultancy effective Thursday, August 29, 2024.”
“Furthermore, the Governor has directed that any levies that have already been collected must be refunded to the payers without delay.”
“While it is important to note that the Environmental and Climate Protection Law of Enugu State empowers the Ministry to enforce regulations aimed at reducing emissions of toxic gases, the necessary groundwork for the full implementation of these provisions is not yet complete.”
“The government is currently in the process of developing a comprehensive climate policy, which will outline a balanced framework for promoting business and industrial activities while fostering clean innovation and sustainable practices across the state.”
“Meanwhile, the Governor Mbah Administration remains committed to protecting the environment and addressing environmental pollution, but we must do so in a way that ensures fairness, transparency, and regard to proper regulatory preparation,” the SSG stated.
- Governor Mbah Renames Road After Folk Music Legend, Mike Ejeagha - September 5, 2024
- Enugu Stops Collection Of Levies On Alternative Energy Sources - September 5, 2024
- Ministry of Education Enugu Debunks N5m Demand Notice For Private Schools - September 5, 2024