The Lagos State House of Assembly has called on the Ministry of Environment and Water Resources to step up enforcement of environmental laws against open defecation and provide free public toilets across the state.
The move is part of a broader effort to improve sanitation and protect public health.
At Tuesday’s plenary session, lawmakers took turns stressing the need for a sustained awareness campaign to educate residents on the dangers of open defecation.
They warned that the unhygienic practice poses serious health risks and undermines economic development.
Raising the issue as a Matter of Urgent Public Importance, Hon. Stephen Ogundipe representing Oshodi-Isolo 1 lamented that open defecation is damaging Lagos’ reputation and impeding sustainable development.
“Open defecation poses a direct threat to public health. Efforts must be made to involve all stakeholders in promoting good sanitation,” Ogundipe stated.
Hon. Bonu Solomon representing Badagry 1 took a hard stance, advocating for the arrest of destitute individuals contributing to the sanitation crisis.
He also called on local government chairmen to play a more active role in keeping their areas clean.
Similarly, Hon. Aro Moshood representing Ikorodu 2 raised concerns about poor sanitation in riverine areas, where open defecation is rampant.
He also noted that refuse dumps have taken over many streets in Lagos, accusing market coordinators at Mile 12 of failing to cooperate with government efforts.
Speaker of the House, Rt. Hon. Princess Mojisola Meranda, strongly condemned open defecation, stressing the need for improved toilet facilities across Lagos.
“We need to be responsible while using the toilet to make it convenient for others,” she stated.
The lawmakers unanimously called for stricter enforcement of environmental laws, increased public sensitization, and the provision of free public toilets.
