Thousands of residents in Port Harcourt are grappling with the impact of uncollected refuse, as large piles of waste have emerged on major roads throughout the city. The situation has intensified following the recent suspension of the leadership of the sanitation agency, plunging the area into a sanitation crisis.
Reports indicate that refuse is now occupying road medians in various neighborhoods, including Eneka, Rukpokwu, Igwuruta, and Eleme. The unsightly accumulation of waste has raised concerns among residents and business owners alike, who are suffering from the repercussions of this environmental emergency.
Local residents attribute the grim situation to the ongoing state of emergency in Rivers State, which they believe has hindered effective waste management. “We are living in unbearable conditions. The waste is everywhere, and it seems no one is taking responsibility,” lamented one resident.
Business owners in the area reported that the overwhelming stench from the waste has adversely affected their operations. “Customers are staying away because of the smell, and it’s becoming harder to do business,” one shop owner expressed.
Adding to the alarm, environmentalist Andah Wai Ogosu has voiced serious concerns about the public health implications of the deteriorating sanitation conditions. “The piles of waste create serious health risks and can lead to an epidemic outbreak if not addressed promptly,” Ogosu warned.
Health expert Dr. Edward Ikpae has called on residents to practice good hygiene in light of the waste crisis. “I urge residents to bag their waste properly before disposal to minimize the health risks associated with this neglect,” he advised.
As the community grapples with this mounting issue, the long-term effects of the sanitary crisis are yet to be fully realized. Without immediate intervention, the residents face not only an environmental disaster but a looming public health threat that could affect the entire region.
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