From Owen Akenzua, Asaba
Delta State Capital Territory Development Agency’s, DSCTDA, Taskforce yesterday sealed Hausa Quarters located along Okpanam Road, shortly after Mable Hill Junction, over what officials described as “alarming and persistent” unsanitary conditions.
The enforcement action followed a series of inspections and public complaints regarding poor hygiene, indiscriminate waste disposal and blocked drainage systems within the settlement.
Speaking during the operation, the Head of Environment at DSCTDA, Mr. Isaac Nwosu, said the agency had no choice but to intervene after repeated warnings were ignored.
He noted that the level of environmental degradation in the area was unacceptable, adding that it had become a health hazard not only to those living there but also to the surrounding community. According to him, several notices had been issued to clean up the area, but there was no meaningful compliance.
The Hausa Quarter, a densely populated area with a mix of residential and informal commercial activity, has long been flagged for poor sanitation. Residents and commuters have repeatedly complained of overflowing refuse, clogged drains, and foul odors—especially during the rainy season.
Taskforce officials from the DSCTDA were seen placing “sealed” notices on various buildings and directing the evacuation of occupants. The operation was carried out peacefully, with no reports of resistance.
Some residents in nearby areas expressed relief and called for long-term solutions to the persistent environmental issues. Chinedu Okorie, a shop owner close to the area, said the community had been living with the filth for too long and welcomed the agency’s action. He also urged the government to provide proper waste disposal systems to prevent a recurrence.
Mr. Nwosu confirmed that the area would remain sealed until a thorough sanitation exercise is completed and the affected occupants commit to maintaining environmental standards.
The Delta State government, through the DSCTDA, has in recent months intensified enforcement activities across Asaba as part of a broader campaign to improve public health and urban hygiene
