The Abia State Environmental Protection Agency (ASEPA) has sealed several business facilities in Umuahia, the capital of Abia State, over alleged violations of environmental regulations, including failure to obtain Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA) approval and improper waste disposal practices.
According to the agency, the enforcement action affected at least eight establishments operating within the city. Officials said the facilities were shut down after investigations revealed that they were operating without the required Environmental Impact Assessment documentation and were channeling waste in ways that could harm the environment.
Among the affected businesses were Pros P and Nova Heaven Apartment Hotels in Amakama, Rich Vision Water, Confidence Hotels, Waveron Gas, Delatinos Event Centre, Hilltop Hotels and Bar, and several others.
The General Manager of the environmental agency, Ogbonnaya Okereke, explained that the closures were carried out following a valid court order. Speaking through the agency’s Head of Monitoring and Revenue, Okpara Macauley, he expressed concern about the growing number of businesses operating without proper environmental approvals.
Okereke noted that many of the affected facilities had neither conducted the mandatory Environmental Impact Assessment nor submitted Environmental Evaluation Reports required for their operations. He also pointed out that some establishments were found disposing of waste through channels that polluted the surrounding environment.
The ASEPA boss urged business owners, especially those running hotels, eateries, water factories, and related establishments, to strictly follow environmental regulations before commencing operations. He warned that failure to comply with environmental laws would continue to attract strict penalties from the state government.
As part of the enforcement action, one of the sealed hospitality businesses was ordered by the court to pay a fine of ₦2.5 million to the Abia State Government, in addition to ₦50,000 payable to the Abia State Judiciary account.
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Authorities say the move is part of broader efforts by the state government to promote environmental safety, enforce compliance with regulations, and prevent pollution in urban areas.