The Environmental Health Officers Association of Nigeria warned of an increased risk of a cholera epidemic due to the damaged sewer with potentially catastrophic consequences.
The Environmental Health Officers Association of Nigeria (EHOAN), FCT Chapter, has urgently called for immediate action following the collapse of a main sewage line in the nation’s capital.
EHOAN president Ismaila Dankog made the call in an interview on Monday. He urged the FCT Minister, Nyesom Wike, to prioritise the matter and take decisive measures to prevent a public health crisis in Abuja.
Mr Dankogi highlighted the severe risks posed by the incident, especially given the ongoing Cholera outbreak in the country.
He emphasised the increased risk of cholera transmission due to the damaged sewage infrastructure, warning of potentially catastrophic consequences if the situation remained unaddressed.
He outlined several critical concerns, including the possibility of a large-scale outbreak, compromised environmental health services, economic challenges, and potential loss of life.
Mr Dankogi called for immediate action, including a thorough investigation into the cause of the sewage line collapse and data collection from the Abuja Environmental Protection Board (AEPB).
The health expert also recommended engaging reputable contractors to repair the damaged sewage network and prevent further environmental contamination.
“There is a need for the implementation of emergency measures to contain the cholera spread, including the provision of safe water by the water board, enhanced sanitation and hygiene facilities, and other preventive measures,” he said.
Mr Dankogi affirmed EHOAN’s readiness to collaborate with the minister and agencies for a swift response, emphasising that prompt action was vital to protect FCT residents’ health.
Meanwhile, the AEPB has cautioned Abuja residents against improper waste disposal practices threatening the integrity of the city’s sewage system.
Ndidi Emma-Agbodike, an assistant director at Wupa Basin Treatment Plant, AEPB, urged the residents to avoid dumping solid waste into sewer manholes, which are crucial for sewage flow and preventing spillage.
According to him, improper waste disposal practices are becoming alarming in the territory, thereby increasing the level of blockages of the sewer system.
