The Ondo State House of Assembly on Monday passed the second reading of a bill to establish a Coastal Management Agency — a move aimed at curbing environmental abuse, illegal marine activities, and oil pollution in the state’s riverine communities.
Sponsored by Oluwatoyin Allen, representing Irele Constituency, the bill proposes the formation of an agency responsible for dredging waterways, securing coastal zones, registering marine transport operators, and monitoring oil companies operating in the area.
Allen highlighted growing concerns about unregulated activities of oil firms, including recent oil spills from contractors hired by local governments.
He said the new agency would enforce accountability, reduce pollution, and boost revenue through proper registration and oversight.
He also emphasized the agency’s security role — including setting up a Coastal Guard to tackle piracy, illegal fishing, and the movement of undocumented immigrants.
“The coastal agency will not only restore order but also create jobs and open up opportunities for marine-based businesses,” Allen told the Assembly.
Supporting the bill, Speaker Olamide Oladiji criticized oil companies operating in coastal areas for “exploiting local resources without contributing to infrastructure or environmental protection.”
He described the bill as a “game-changer” and promised swift passage.
The lawmakers agreed that the proposed agency is key to unlocking the economic and environmental potential of Ondo’s water-rich communities — and a step toward restoring sanity on the waterways.
