TheHILL. | ENVIRONMENT | April 20, 2021.
Akwa Ibom State Government has frowned at indiscriminate dumping of waste in drainages and other humans activities which may impede the free flow of waters as the rainy season sets in.
It further warned that, government will wield its big stick against persons caught engaging in such acts capable of causing environmental menace in the State.
Speaking on Monday, to enlighten residents while monitoring desilting exercise at Ibom Plaza axis in Uyo, the State Capital, the Chairman of Akwa Ibom State Environmental Protection and Waste Management Agency (AKSEPWMA), Hon. Prince IKim, highlighted the need for residents to desist from the negative habit, as it is one of the major causes of flooding in the State.
Ikim noted that the rains had already started, and the government viewed the risk of flooding as a major concern.
He, however, noted that while the government would deploy the necessary tools to ensure a flood-free season, residents also have a responsibility to protect their environment by desisting from throwing their waste carelessly on the medians and in roadside gutters.
Describing such act as environmentally degrading and outright sabotage of the government’s efforts, IKim reiterated that it is not only the responsibility of the government to protect the environment but also the residents’ civic responsibility.
He warned that government will no more tolerate abuse of simple environmental ethos by residents, and as such persons culpable of the acts would be made to pay for their undoings.
“The state government has worked hard enough to ensure Akwa Ibom remains flood-free, clean and safe for the people and investors. The people should therefore make good use of the gesture by taking responsibility for the hygiene of their environment. Anyone found culpable tossing trash into the gutters will forthwith be made to face the consequences of their actions.
“What we want from people living in Akwa Ibom is to generate their waste, bag their waste and drop them in designated dump points for effective cleaning and to prevent the blockage of our drainages and canals”, he said.
Ikim re-emphasized the need for residents to stop open defecation, indiscriminate dumping of waste, proper waste disposal and sewage, noting such would engender effective management of their environment and promote healthy hygiene in the State.
Speaking further, the AKSEPWMA Boss, assured that the Agency desilting team will continue to do her best in desilting gutters as well as prompt evacuation of waste ahead of the season but insisted that everyone must play their part.
Ikim specifically lauded efforts of the State Governor, Mr. Udom Emmanuel, in his thrust and steadfastness in managing the State’s environment.
