The Chairman of Ughelli North Local Government Council of Delta State, Mr. Jaro Egbo, has bowed to public pressure in the lingering crisis over the hike in the price of sand by placing a ban on all forms of interference in the activities of those involved in the sale of sand by any union.
He declared a free market policy for the sale and transportation of sharp sand across the local government area.
The new directive followed a meeting with the Sand Dredgers Association and the Union of Tippers and Quarry Employers of Nigeria (UTQUEN), Ughelli North Chapter, held on Monday, at the council’s secretariat.
Under the new directive, builders and sand dealers are free to conduct their transactions without interference from any union or association.
The price of sand has been reduced to ₦30, 000 per trip, though sellers are free to adjust prices based on market forces.
Additionally, builders may source sand from any location within or outside Ughelli North without restrictions or penalties.
The council boss has also assured stakeholders of his commitment to enforcing these policies, while encouraging sand dredgers and tipper operators to comply with the new regulations.
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To maintain order and protect the environment, the council has mandated that all trucks transporting sand must be covered with tarpaulins to prevent littering.
The sale of wet sand that spills onto roads has also been strictly prohibited, with offenders facing immediate penalties enforced by the council’s task force.
Egbo further urged residents to report any cases of obstruction or harassment in the sale of sand or transportation to the local government for immediate action.
“These resolutions are designed to create a conducive business environment, reduce building costs, and protect the rights of our people,” the chairman stated.
