On Tuesday, September 3, 2024, at a meeting held at the Western Rural Council Town Hall, Director General of the National Protection Authority Agency (NPPA), Mr. John B. Rogers, defended his agency’s actions and outlined their mandate. Rogers emphasized that his institution is responsible for demolishing illegal and unauthorized structures in prohibited areas, stating that such actions leave no room for legal challenges from those affected.
Rogers assured that NPPA operations have been largely successful and pledged to take robust action against violators. He highlighted that forest guards are deployed throughout the region to ensure compliance and noted that some individuals knowingly build in restricted areas, anticipating the consequences.
However, during the subsequent discussion, representatives from communities where NPPA guards are active— including Grafton, Charlotte, Regent, Orugu, and Mayenkena—voiced strong criticisms of the guards’ conduct. Over 70% of the speakers reported negative experiences, alleging that guards were flouting the laws themselves. Complaints included accusations of guards operating in non-prohibited areas, humiliating individuals, seizing materials without justification, disregarding official documents, and acting unilaterally.
In response to the widespread condemnation, the Minister of Environment and Climate Change urged the public to report any misconduct by guards directly to the ministry. The Minister assured that the government is committed to addressing any violations and will enforce the law against any guards found to be in breach of regulations.
The meeting underscored the growing tension between the NPPA and local communities, highlighting the need for increased oversight and accountability in the enforcement of environmental regulations.
