Desirous to contain further spread of cholera in the Federal Capital Territory, the FCT Rural Water Supply and Sanitation Agency (RUWASSA) has warned residents against open defecation, drinking untreated water, and eating unwashed fruits and vegetables.
The overseeing director of RUWASSA, Mr. Luke Ifop Ulom, told journalists in his office, Thursday, that adherence to open defecation policy is not negotiable, especially now that the dry season has set in.
He said the idea of using bushes and uncompleted buildings for defecation besides not healthy was also dangerous as reptiles are harboured there.
The overseeing director said residents should desist from eating fruits without washing and be mindful of what they drink.
He said the Agency has embarked on sensitisation and awareness campaigns across the territory.
According to him, his agency will implement and enforce stringent penalties for open defecation to deter individuals from engaging in such unhygienic practices, especially now that cholera epidemic is on the prowl.
He further explained that FCT RUWASSA has been investing in the development of proper sewage system and waste management infrastructure to ensure efficient disposal of human wastes.
Ifop Ulom therefore assured that the agency will upgrade and expand existing sanitation facilities to accommodate the growing population and wade off the cholera epidemic.
He said government has made provision for public toilets in strategic location in various parts of the city and urged residents to be hygienic.
According to him, open defecation poses significant health and environmental risk to the residents.
Accordingly, he said addressing the issue was paramount for the well being of communities in the FCT.
The agency’s efforts are aimed at reducing the incidence of open defecation, improve public health, and enhance the overall quality of life for rural communities in the FCT.
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