The National Environmental Standards and Regulations Enforcement Agency (NESREA) is to issue a Letter of Commendation to the Baale of Okun Igando, Ibeju-Lekki, Lagos State, Hon. Chief Semiu Waliu Jejelaiye, for leading his fishing community to rescue and release a critically endangered Leatherback Sea Turtle.
The Director General of the Agency, Prof. Innocent Barikor, announced the commendation after videos circulating on social media showed the massive turtle trapped in a fishing net and members of the Okun Igando community working together to return it alive to the Atlantic Ocean.
According to the videos, the Baale had stopped attempts by some persons to kill or sell the turtle and ordered that it be returned to the sea.
Barikor described the action of the Baale and the youth of the community as exemplary.
“The action of the Baale and the youth is exemplary. The Leatherback and other types of sea turtles including ground or land types are protected by both international Conventions, protocols and local laws.
“ Sea turtles are globally threatened due to by-catch, ocean-plastic pollution and poaching. Saving one adult female like this can mean saving hundreds of future hatchlings,” he said.
NESREA reminded the public that killing, trading or possessing endangered species is an offence punishable by law.
The Agency advised fishermen who accidentally catch turtles or other endangered sea animals to immediately release them and report to the Agency.
It added that it would continue to work with marine adjoining communities to strengthen conservation awareness.
