Residential areas in the Federal Capital Territory, Abuja, are facing a growing crisis of waste disposal, making them increasingly uninhabitable.
A recent examination by NewsNow of locations like Karu Site, Jikwoyi, Kurudu, Kubwa, Gwarinpa, Utako, and other areas under the Abuja Municipal Area Council, AMAC, exposed the rampant dumping of refuse by residents and cart pushers, commonly called ‘Baban Bola.’ The lack of action by government and its agencies responsible for maintaining cleanliness in the FCT was also glaring.
Residents are seen indiscriminately littering the city center with water sachets, used cans, and various other garbage items. The situation is further exacerbated by the accumulation of unattended refuse heaps that have been growing for weeks, some spilling onto the roads.
These mounting refuse piles pose a serious threat to the health and well-being of the residents living in these areas.
The responsibility of addressing these growing refuse heaps lies with the Federal Capital Territory Administration, particularly through the Abuja Environmental Protection Board (AEPB) and the Abuja Municipal Area Council (AMAC).
Improper waste disposal, as highlighted by environmental experts, not only endangers human health but also has severe environmental repercussions, including the spread of diseases, pollution, and food safety risks.
One resident, Beatrice Nwaneka, residing in Utako, voiced her frustration about the irregular waste collection services in her area. She complained about the persistent stench and the inadequate frequency of waste collection which leads to accumulation around the waste bins.
Similarly, residents in Gwarinpa expressed their dissatisfaction with the inconsistent waste disposal services, affecting businesses and daily life activities in the area.
Deputy Director of Information at the AEPB, Mrs. Josephine Peni, emphasized that the refuse dumps are supposed to be cleared at least thrice a week, underscoring the importance of regular waste management practices.
Besides the waste management challenges, the influx of scavengers like ‘Baban Bola’ and herders with their cattle roaming the streets have added to the environmental and security concerns in the FCT.
While addressing the issues faced by the residents, Mrs. Peni outlined the areas of jurisdiction for waste management activities of AEPB and reiterated the commitment to ensuring cleanliness in the city center and surrounding regions.
Efforts are also being made to collaborate with security agencies to address the security threats posed by scavengers and herders in the city, with a focus on removing them from the streets and ensuring a safer environment for residents.