Agency shuts down Kwara school over environmental, structural violations
By Muyideen Aliyu, Ilorin
The Kwara State Environmental Protection Agency (KWEPA) has sealed off a private school in Ilorin for operating in violation of established environmental and operational standards, following multiple inspections which revealed that the facility failed to meet the minimum requirements for a safe and conducive learning environment.
Speaking during the enforcement exercise, the Head of the School Department of the Agency, Mrs Wulemat Musa, said the Agency discovered that the premises were being used concurrently as both a school and a place of worship.
She noted that the structure lacked adequate classroom facilities, proper sanitation, and other basic environmental standards required for educational institutions.
In a statement signed by Mrs Musa, she explained that the closure became inevitable after the school management ignored repeated warnings and failed to implement corrective measures outlined in earlier directives.
She stressed that the Agency would not compromise its duty to protect public health, particularly in settings where children are at heightened risk of environmental hazards.
While reiterating the Agency’s commitment to strict enforcement of environmental safety regulations across all schools in the state, Musa advised school proprietors to obtain all necessary approvals and ensure their facilities comply fully with health, sanitation, and structural standards before commencing operations.
Musa further urged school owners, religious institutions, and other stakeholders to cooperate with the Agency in its mission to promote a clean, safe, and supportive environment for learning.
“The Agency will not allow undesirable elements to put the lives of students in danger for the purpose of making money. All necessary machinery will be put in place to guarantee the safety of the people,” she added.
Musa stated that the action was part of a broader initiative by the State Government to strengthen safety compliance and safeguard the well-being of all residents, stressing that all relevant stakeholders are working together in this direction.