Members of Lagos State House of Assembly have urged the Ministry of Environment and Water Resources to strictly enforce environmental laws against open defecation.
The resolution was passed during plenary presided over by Speaker Mojisola Meranda, at the Assembly Complex, Ikeja, yesterday.
She called on the state government to intensify public awareness campaigns and collaborate with private companies to fund sanitation initiatives across Lagos.
The speaker also urged the authorities to ensure the widespread provision of free public toilets to curb open defecation in the state.
“There is the need for an extensive and sustained awareness campaign to educate residents on the dangers of open defecation.
“As we condemn open defecation, there is an urgent need for improved sanitation infrastructure across the state,” she said.
Speaking under Matters of Urgent Public Importance, Mr Stephen Ogundipe (Oshodi-Isolo 1) said open defecation tarnishes Lagos reputation and hinders sustainable development.
Bonu Solomon (Badagry 1) called for the arrest of homeless individuals contributing to the sanitation crisis.
However, Solomon urged local government chairmen to support state efforts in maintaining cleanliness.
Gbolahan Yishawu (Eti-Osa 1) proposed the introduction of affordable public toilets across the state.
Yishawu also called for clear policies on the management of public sanitation facilities.
Aro Moshood (Ikorodu 2) linked waste accumulation to open defecation and stressed the need for stricter waste management, particularly in market areas like Mile 12.
The News Agency of Nigeria, NAN, reports that open defecation involves defecating in fields, forests or bodies of water instead of using a toilet.
It poses serious public health risk and can contribute to the spread of infectious diseases. NAN
