The Bayelsa State Government has banned the movement, transportation and conveyance of wood, timber and all forest products within the state, with effect from January 1, 2026.

The state Commissioner for Environment, Hon. Ebi Ben Ololo, disclosed this in a statement issued in Yenagoa, noting that the ban applies to all land and maritime routes across the state. He warned that violators would be arrested and prosecuted in accordance with the law.

The commissioner also announced the suspension of dredging activities across Bayelsa State, directing all dredging operators to immediately cease operations from January 1, 2026.

“All dredging operators operating in any part of Bayelsa State are to cease dredging activities with effect from January 1, 2026, and are required to seek and obtain proper location approval and authorisation from the relevant government authorities before any future operations may be considered,” Ololo said.

According to him, the directive applies to all dredging operators, whether operating on land, inland waterways, rivers, creeks or coastal environments, without exception.

He explained that the measures were aimed at protecting the environment, conserving forest and aquatic resources, preventing ecological degradation and eradicating illegal logging and unauthorised dredging activities.

“In view of the foregoing, all individuals, transporters, companies, associations and operators engaged in the harvesting, transportation or trading of wood and forest products, as well as land and sand dredging activities, are hereby directed to strictly comply with this directive,” he said.

The commissioner further warned that any community, community leadership or traditional ruler found to be aiding, abetting, shielding or collaborating in prohibited logging, transportation of forest products or dredging activities would be held jointly liable and dealt with in line with relevant Bayelsa State laws.

“Any person, group or operator found to be in violation of this order shall be arrested and prosecuted. No exemptions shall be granted,” he added.

To ensure full compliance, Ololo said the Ministry of Environment, in collaboration with relevant security agencies and enforcement bodies, would carry out strict enforcement of the directive across all parts of the state. (Vanguard)