Nigerian Doctor Fined Nearly $1M for Cutting Protected Trees in Oakland

A Nigerian doctor and his wife have been ordered to pay a $915,135.40 fine for illegally removing 38 protected trees on their Oakland property. The City Council approved the penalty after residents raised concerns about wildfire risks and the trees’ role in public health and environmental equity. The couple followed arborist advice four years ago but the city found no evidence the trees were hazardous. A lien now prevents selling or developing the land until the fine is settled. A tree specialist warns it could take centuries to restore the ecological benefits lost.

Use The App To Win ₦1m

Stories are shared by community members. This article does not represent the official view of NaijaWorld — the author is solely responsible for its content.