By Sylvia Okoi
The Cross River State Government has praised residents of Calabar, the State Capital for their high level of compliance during the August edition of the monthly sanitation exercise.
The Commissioner for Environment, Hon. Moses Osogi, expressed his commendation while speaking with the media after overseeing the sanitation initiative and urged residents to adopt the sanitation culture as a part of their daily lives.
The Commissioner emphasized that adherence to the State’s sanitation policy not only enhances the well-being of the community but also reflects the acceptance of the current administration led by Governor Bassey Edet Otu.
Commissioner Osogi acknowledged the efforts of traders at Watt Market, who actively participated in the exercise, and announced plans to redeploy additional dumpsters to better accommodate the waste generated in the market area.
He encouraged young traders with cash rewards to motivate their continued engagement in sanitation efforts.
Conversely, during his visit to Marian Market, he expressed disapproval of some traders who neglected sanitation order, stressing that their repeated defiance, despite previous warnings and penalties, is concerning.
Reaffirming the Government’s commitment to addressing environmental challenges, the Commissioner criticized the poor environmental practices observed by residents along Archibong Ika Street near the University of Cross River State and UNICAL Poultry farm, which led to the blockage of drainage channels and promised to discuss potential solutions with his superiors, aiming for implementation by the dry season.
In an unexpected turn of events on Harbor Street following the sanitation exercise, Osogi ordered the closure of several business centers and the arrest of offenders due to their failure to adhere to state regulations, as their surroundings were noticeably dirty and littered with waste, contributing to pollution in the area.
In response, residents and traders praised the State Government for their efforts, noting the significant improvements in cleanliness throughout the State Capital. At the time of reporting, defaulters were being prosecuted in designated mobile courts.
