The Plateau Environmental Protection and Sanitation Agency (PEPSA) has sealed two restaurants operating at Rhomat Plaza in Rayfield, opposite the Jos Steel Rolling Mills staff quarters, over violations of environmental sanitation regulations.
The agency said the enforcement action was carried out after obtaining a court order, following allegations that the establishments discharged wastewater containing food particles and other waste materials into major drainage channels.
According to PEPSA, the affected restaurants had previously been warned and advised to stop the practice but failed to comply.
The agency explained that major drainages are designed to convey stormwater and floodwater, not domestic, biological or commercial waste generated by businesses.
It added that the restaurants were directed to install grease traps and properly channel their effluent to prevent environmental pollution, but ignored the directive, necessitating the sealing of the premises.
Speaking on the development on Wednesday, PEPSA’s Deputy Director of Enforcement said the agency would continue to take proactive measures to protect public health and ensure compliance with environmental standards.
The agency noted that it recently undertook extensive desilting of drainage channels across the Jos and Bukuru metropolis to improve water flow and reduce the risk of flash flooding.
PEPSA also reiterated its commitment to public sensitisation on the dangers of poor sanitation practices and the need to maintain clean drainages and proper hygiene standards.
It urged restaurants, eateries and other commercial establishments to comply with environmental regulations or face sanctions, including the closure of their premises.
The agency added that enforcement operations would be intensified across Jos and Bukuru to ensure strict adherence to environmental laws.