Niger starts night patrol to eliminate open defecation

The Niger State Environmental Protection Agency (NISEPA) says it will collaborate with the police to embark on night patrol in areas with records of open defecation.

Lucky Barau, general manager of NISEPA, disclosed this in an interview with the NAN in Minna on Tuesday.

He said that areas such as Tunga roundabout, Kpakungu under the bridge, and under mobile bridge, would be under surveillance by the police and officials of the agency to ensure that nobody defecated in the areas henceforth.

Barau added that the agency would also collaborate with the Nigeria Prison Service on the matter.

“The state government will no longer tolerate people defecating openly, especially along major roadsides used by motorists.

“We have received reports from concerned individuals of the unpleasant odour perceived by road users while passing the road. We will not condone indecent behavior that will bring discomfort to the public.

“The night patrol will be carried out three times every week and until the culprits are brought to book, if not, we will not relent,” he said.

The general manager warned those in the habit of defecating openly to desist from such practice, adding that such was not healthy for the people.

He urged the people to always include toilet facilities while building houses and offices to avoid indiscriminate defecation in public places.

Barau added that the agency would continue to sensitise the residents to the danger of open defecation.

“The sensitisation will be extended to villages on the danger of not keeping the environment clean,” Barau added.

He appealed to well-to-do-individuals in the state to venture into the business of building public toilets in strategic and overcrowded places to address public defecation.