By Tony Adibe
The Enugu State Government has clarified its position on the reports concerning the collection of industrial gas emission levy by consultants to the Ministry of Environment and Climate Change, noting that the exercise had since been suspended on 29th August 2024 and the consultancy terminated with immediate effect.
It also clarified that Governor Peter Mbah equally directed the refund of any such levy so collected, adding that the said consultants exceeded their brief.
NewsBits reports that the government’s position was made in a public notice signed by the Secretary to the State, Prof. Chidiebere Onyia, and made available to reporters on Wednesday.
The government equally described as blatant falsehood, reports in a section of the media claiming that the government had introduced fines for the use of renewable energy sources such as solar. It emphasised that on the contrary, the government’s legislative and policy directions favour all renewable and green energy sources, as they are environmentally friendly.
The government further explained that whereas the Ministry acted within its powers, given the provisions of Section 4 (2) and Section 124 of the Enugu State Environmental and Climate Protection Law, 2024, which covers the enforcement of environmental laws, as well as Section 125 of the Law, which prescribes fines for “obnoxious gaseous emissions into the environment,” such levies and enforcements were premature as the necessary groundwork and infrastructure were still being put in place.
The SSG said: “Recent reports have highlighted the collection of levies on alternative energy sources by consultants engaged by the Ministry of Environment and Climate Change.
“After reviewing the matter, he directed the immediate cessation of this levy collection process and the termination of the consultancy effective Thursday, August 29, 2024. “Furthermore, the governor has directed that any levies that have already been collected must be refunded to the payers without delay.
“While it is important to note that the Environmental and Climate Protection Law of Enugu State empowers the Ministry to enforce regulations aimed at reducing emissions of toxic gases, the necessary groundwork for the full implementation of these provisions is not yet complete.
“The government is currently in the process of developing a comprehensive climate policy, which will outline a balanced framework for promoting business and industrial activities while fostering clean innovation and sustainable practices across the state.
“However, while the Governor Mbah Administration remains committed to protecting the environment and addressing environmental pollution, it is equally committed to doing so in a way that ensures fairness, transparency, and regard to proper regulatory preparation.”
