Renaissance Care and Empowerment Foundation (RECEF Nigeria), a non-government organisation (NGO), has raised an alarm over a possible epidemic in Kogi following stinking refuse dumps that litter many parts of the state. Mr Idris Muraina, its Executive Director, expressed the fear in a statement issued on Friday in Lokoja. The executive director said that the NGO was deeply concerned about the deteriorating state of cleanliness and waste management in Kogi, especially in Lokoja metropolis.
“Despite efforts such as ‘Operation Clean the City’ launched this year by the environment and ecological management ministry, the situation has worsened, putting the health and well-being of residents at risk. “This situation calls for urgent steps from Gov. Usman Ododo, to put the authorities tasked with the day-to-day clearing of the mountains of refuge dumps, on their toes.
“The streets from Lokongoma down to the New Market/Nataco axis are now overrun with unremoved waste, turning our once vibrant city into a breeding ground for diseases and environmental hazards. “The dumpsite somewhere around Felele area of Lokoja, close to the Federal University permanent site, is wearing a dangerous look. “What was once envisioned as ‘Operation Clean the City’, now seems to have transformed into ‘Operation Prepare for Cholera’ as the filth continues to accumulate unchecked.
“We are calling on the environment and ecological management ministry and the Kogi Waste Management Board.