Following the illegal cutting of trees which occurs mostly in Ilorin East, Edu and Patigi Local Government Areas of Kwara, the state government has inaugurated a five-man Forestry Monitoring Committee in order to find a lasting solution to the menace.

The Commissioner for Environment and Forestry, Barrister Kayode Towoju, who expressed displeasure at the way some miscreants cut trees indiscriminately despite campaigns against degradation of the forest reserves, called the citizenry to ensure safety in their jurisdictions.

While inaugurating the committee, which comprise retired forest officers and experienced foresters in the state, Towoju described the appointment as a call to duty and service, stressing the need to be committed and dedicated to their responsibilities as managing the environment is an overwhelming task.

The commissioner commended some law abiding citizens, following their several complaints to the ministry in respect to the illegal cutting down of trees.

Responding on behalf of the Committee, the Chairman and a Chief Forestry Superintendent, Mr. James Fadipe, expressed gratitude to the management for the opportunity, promising that the committee will live up to the task.