Olomu Kingdom Places Ban on Indiscriminate Felling of Trees, Vows to Deal with Defaulters

AKPERHE - THE Olomu Kingdom in Ughelli South Local Government Area of Delta State has announced an immediate ban on the indiscriminate felling of trees within its domain, citing growing environmental concerns and the need to preserve natural resources for future generations.

The directive was issued by the traditional ruler of the kingdom, HRM Albert Akpomudje SAN during the Kingdom's traditional Council meeting held at the Ohworode palace Saturday.

The immediate ban follows reports by Olorogun John Ewenede, Secretary OKTC and others of unchecked logging activities across several communities in the kingdom. 

The monarch warned that the continued destruction of trees poses serious threats to the ecosystem, including soil erosion, flooding, and climate-related challenges.

Addressing Chiefs, Community leaders and residents, the Ohworode stressed that the kingdom would no longer tolerate the reckless exploitation of its forests. 

He emphasized that trees play a vital role in sustaining livelihoods, protecting farmlands, and maintaining ecological balance.

Under the new directive, individuals or groups found cutting down trees without proper authorization from the palace or designated authorities will face stiff penalties. 

The monarch disclosed that a task force would be set up to monitor compliance and enforce the ban across all quarters of the kingdom.

Akpomudje instructed Community leaders to immediately announce the ban across all communities. 

Community Chiefs and Leaders have been directed to sensitize residents on the importance of environmental conservation and to report any suspicious logging activities. 

The kingdom also plans to collaborate with Ughelli South Local Government, Ministry of Environment and Delta State Government to ensure that defaulters are severely dealt with.

All the Chiefs welcomed the move, describing it as timely in light of increasing deforestation and its adverse effects on farming and living conditions.

The Olomu Kingdom reaffirmed its commitment to safeguarding its natural heritage, urging all indigenes and settlers to support the initiative in the collective interest of sustainable development and environmental protection.