Abia government urges traders to follow sanitation rules
The Abia State Government has called on market leaders to ensure traders comply with the state’s monthly environmental sanitation exercise. Philemon Ogbonna, the Commissioner for Environment, criticized market leaders for not mobilizing traders and failing to report environmental hazards. Officials observed that some traders continued business during the sanitation period, especially in major markets in Umuahia. Despite these issues, government representatives praised residents for improved participation and encouraged continued compliance.
What we know
- Philemon Ogbonna said negligence by market leaders is undermining sanitation efforts.
- Market leaders at Orie Ugba and Ubani markets were criticized for not reporting refuse heaps to the Abia State Environmental Protection Agency (ASEPA).
- Enforcement officers arrested 50 defaulters during the exercise; 12 were released and 38 prosecuted under state environmental laws.
- The Deputy General Manager of ASEPA, Ambrose Jonah, and the Special Assistant to the Governor on Environment, Ijeoma Iheukwumere, commended residents for their cooperation.
- The Chairman of the House Committee on Environment, Kalu Mba Nwoke, expressed concern that traders’ actions are hindering the state’s environmental health goals.
