Governor Bala Mohammed of Bauchi State has assented to three executive orders directing unified method of measurement, environmental protection and the removal of illegal structures.
While signing the executive orders, the governor explained that with this development, the issuance of permits along road corridors, green areas, right of way, utility areas or setbacks in the state by any of the ministries or parastatals and local government councils is prohibited.
According to him, any person who fails to comply with the provision of the order shall be liable on conviction to a three-month imprisonment or a fine of N100,000 or both.
“It shall be an offence under this order to hinder or resist any authorised officer to carry out his or her lawful duties. Without any excuse, refusal or willful failure to comply with any enquiries on directives made by any officer or taskforce in accordance with the order is an offence.
“Impersonating an officer or duties of staff of the board, agency or taskforce; attempting or aiding any action which can hinder the enforcement of this order; omitting or committing any act inimical to free conduct, compliance and obedience to any provision of this order and aforementioned laws becomes an offence,” he said.
Governor Mohammed noted that the state government has observed with serious concern the proliferation of different weights and measures across the state which places the consumer at a disadvantage saying such would no longer be tolerated.
He said the state government recognises the need to protect the consumer by maintaining standard and unified weight and measures in the state and pointed out that, by this order, the use of all old weight and measures presently in circulation in the state is banned.