Abia Government Warns Security Agencies Against Sabotaging Sanitation Laws

The Abia State Government has expressed displeasure over the conduct of some security agents, particularly the Police, accusing them of arresting sanitation defaulters and taking them to police stations instead of handing them over to the designated authorities.

The government described the practice as a violation of the Abia State Basic Environmental Sanitation Laws and an act capable of undermining ongoing efforts to maintain a clean and healthy environment. It reminded security operatives that their role is to support the government’s sanitation drive by ensuring compliance and promptly transferring offenders to the appropriate authorities.

The government also condemned the alleged issuance of stamped papers to sanitation defaulters in Ikwuano as a form of cover-up, warning that those behind the act would be exposed in collaboration with the Mayor of Ikwuano Local Government Area. It stressed that such practices run contrary to established sanitation regulations.

Speaking to journalists on Saturday after the September edition of the monthly sanitation exercise, the Commissioner for Environment, Mr. Philemon Ogbonna, represented by the Permanent Secretary of the Ministry, Mr. Ikechukwu Oriuwa, commended the 145 Battalion of the Nigerian Army stationed in Umuoriehe, Umuahia South LGA, for actively participating in the exercise. He also praised workers at Abia Line Umuahia for their commitment, noting that public consciousness about environmental cleanliness is steadily growing.

Similarly, the Senior Special Assistant to Governor Alex Otti on Environment, Prof. Ijeoma Iheukwumere, criticized the actions of security agents who refuse to hand over sanitation offenders, labeling it “sabotage.” She further cautioned parents against failing to control their wards, warning that the government would no longer tolerate actions that undermine its efforts to promote a cleaner Abia.

According to reports, out of 108 sanitation defaulters apprehended during the exercise, 13 were discharged on grounds such as age, health challenges, and the nature of their work.