By Patrick Idowu
Residents of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), have expressed concern over the growing number of refuse dumps on streets and major roads, calling the trend a threat to public health and an eyesore in the nation’s capital.
Mr. John Shawa highlighted the Bwari-Dutse-Kubwa Expressway and Gwarinpa as major areas of concern.
Mrs. Rhoda Essien of Dutse urged stronger sanitation campaigns, noting that indiscriminate dumping could spread disease and harm the environment.
“I see people in vehicles dump waste along roads, especially along Usuma Dam Road and Bwari Road. Even after evacuation, the waste returns,” she said, adding that a ditch on the Kubwa Expressway flyover had become a major refuse site.
Residents called on the Abuja Environmental Protection Board (AEPB), and Bwari Area Council to collaborate on reorientation campaigns and stricter enforcement.
In Kuje Area Council, Mrs. Juliet Izien stressed the need for community action and penalties for offenders.
“There should be clear ‘No Dumping’ signs, and anyone caught should be arrested. Communities must be vigilant,” she said, suggesting regular monitoring by sanitary officers.
Mrs. Faith Nwosu, a teacher, noted that while some residents try to clean affected streets, the refuse often reappears.
She urged authorities to enforce sanitation laws and intensify hygiene sensitisation across FCT communities to reduce communicable diseases such as cholera.
