NESREA sets to honour Lagos chief for rescuing sea turtle

Honour is underway for Baale of Okun Igando in Ibeju-Lekki, Lagos State, Chief Semiu Jejelaiye, for leading the fishing community to rescue and release a critically endangered Leatherback Sea Turtle.

The National Environmental Standards and Regulations Enforcement Agency (NESREA) said it would issue a letter of commendation to the traditional ruler for leading the rescue mission.

NESREA Director General, Prof. Innocent Barikor, said the Baale and community deserve commendation for the act.

Social media videos showed the huge turtle trapped in a fishing net with members of the community collaborating to return it alive to the Atlantic Ocean.

Reports indicated the Baale stopped those who wanted to kill or sell the turtle and ordered that it be set free.

Barikor praised the Baale and the youth of the community for their action.

"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," he said.

He added: "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."

NESREA reminded the public that killing, trading or keeping endangered species is an offence punishable by law. It advised fishermen who accidentally catch turtles or other endangered sea animals to release them immediately and report to the agency.

The agency also said it will keep working with coastal communities to strengthen awareness of conservation.