On September 30, 2024, Kwara State witnessed a significant enforcement of its sanitation laws, as a special court arraigned no fewer than 300 individuals for violating these regulations during the monthly sanitation exercise. This event, held on the last Saturday of each month, is a crucial initiative aimed at maintaining hygiene and cleanliness across the state.
The monthly sanitation takes place from 7 AM to 10 AM, and during the latest exercise, numerous offenders were apprehended in Ilorin, the state capital. While the government acknowledged the efforts of many residents who participated in the sanitation activities, the arrests highlighted ongoing challenges in compliance with the established laws.
Kamaldeen Aliagan, the Press Secretary for the Ministry of Environment, conveyed the sentiments of the Commissioner for Environment, Hajia Nafisat Musa-Buge, who expressed her appreciation for the increased participation from the public. Speaking to journalists at Checkpoint along the Ilorin-Ogbomoso Expressway following the sanitation exercise, she stated, “We are pleased to see an improvement in compliance levels among the residents of Kwara State, particularly in the metropolitan areas. I encourage everyone to maintain this positive momentum.”
Despite the commendations, the Commissioner expressed disappointment at the number of offenders caught, which reflected a disregard for the government’s educational efforts regarding sanitation laws. “It is disheartening that, in spite of our extensive awareness campaigns through radio and other media, approximately 300 individuals were apprehended for flouting sanitation laws during this exercise,” she lamented.
Hajia Musa-Buge emphasized the importance of adhering strictly to the three-hour sanitation schedule, urging community members to take responsibility for cleaning their surroundings. She underscored that maintaining a clean environment is essential for public health and safety.
In addition to addressing the public, the Commissioner also recognized the contributions of mobile court judges, security personnel, transport unions, and other stakeholders for their dedication and support in enforcing the sanitation regulations.
The enforcement of sanitation laws in Kwara State serves as a reminder of the ongoing efforts required to cultivate a culture of cleanliness and responsibility among residents. As the government continues to promote awareness and compliance, the hope is that future sanitation activities will see increased participation and reduced violations.
This initiative aligns with broader public health goals, as maintaining a clean environment is vital for preventing disease and enhancing the quality of life for all citizens.
