A Magistrate Court in Kano has convicted one Ibrahim Abubakar for burning used vehicle tyres, an act considered dangerous to public health and in violation of environmental laws.
Abubakar was arrested by police patrol officers at the Tukuntawa Gidan Radio area after residents alerted authorities over thick, toxic smoke coming from the location.
Officials from the Kano State Ministry of Environment and Climate Change, led by the Director of Pollution Control, Ibrahim Nasir, visited the scene before filing a case against him in court.
During the trial, the Ministry’s legal officer, Barrister Bahijjah H. Aliyu, presented evidence on the health dangers associated with burning tyres, including the emission of harmful gases.
Presiding Magistrate Auwalu Yusuf found Abubakar guilty and sentenced him to three months in prison or an option of a fine. The Magistrate also warned him against repeating such acts, stating they pose a threat to public health.
In a statement signed by the Ministry’s Director of Public Enlightenment, Murtala Shehu Umar, the Ministry welcomed the court’s decision.
“We commend the court for its judgment, which serves as a deterrent to others,” the statement read. “The Ministry remains committed to safeguarding public health and ensuring strict compliance with environmental regulations.”
The Ministry also called on residents to report environmental violations.
“Residents must understand the serious health risks posed by actions like tyre burning. We will continue to take legal steps against anyone found violating environmental laws,” it added.