The Imo State House of Assembly has adopted a motion urging the state government to provide functional toilet facilities in public and private establishments, addressing the alarming issue of open defecation across the state.
The motion, moved by Hon. Princewill Amuchie, representing Aboh-Mbaise Constituency, highlighted the dilapidated state of existing facilities and the dire consequences of open defecation in schools, markets, motor parks, and other public spaces. Amuchie cited reports of unhygienic practices such as faecal waste being discharged into gutters during rainfall, especially in overcrowded facilities like the Owerri Correctional Centre, which houses over 3,000 inmates despite being designed for 800.
According to the 2021 WASH National Outcome Routine Mapping Report, 48 million Nigerians still engage in open defecation, with only 10% of the population having access to adequate water, sanitation, and hygiene services. Amuchie warned that neglecting the issue could lead to severe health crises.
Key Recommendations:
- Provision of toilet facilities in markets, motor parks, schools, and public institutions.
- Community-led sanitation programs to achieve Open Defecation Free (ODF) status in more LGAs, following Ezinihitte Mbaise’s success.
- Reintroduction of sanitary inspectors to enforce hygiene standards and increase public awareness.
- Stiff penalties for misuse of facilities and non-compliance with sanitation regulations.
The motion, co-sponsored by 15 other lawmakers, was unanimously adopted, with Speaker Chike Olemgbe directing the Clerk to communicate the resolution to Governor Hope Uzodimma. Lawmakers also emphasized the need for active advocacy involving stakeholders like UNICEF, USAID, and WaterAid.
