By Anifowoshe Oladipupo
Parts of Gwarinpa in Abuja have turned into makeshift dump sites as heaps of uncollected refuse continue to litter the popular 6th Avenue, sparking health concerns and allegations of corruption against the city’s waste management agency.
Residents and business owners say the mounting refuse has created an eyesore, emitting a foul stench that poses serious environmental and health risks.
They also accuse the waste agency of deliberately neglecting the area to extort additional money from traders and shop owners.
Mr. Matthew Anointing, a Point of Sale (POS), operator whose kiosk sits close to the growing dumpsite, told Abuja City Journal that the agency’s refusal to evacuate waste is intentional.
“Them still wan collect money after government don already pay them,” Anointing said, alleging that officials demand extra payment from business operators even after receiving funds from the Federal Capital Territory Administration (FCTA).
The development has triggered frustration among residents, who are calling on the FCTA to investigate the alleged extortion and ensure regular waste collection to prevent possible disease outbreaks in the area.
