Cholera: FCT agency warns residents against open defecation, eating unwashed fruits, vegetables

By Folorunso Alagbede, Abuja

In its determination to contain further spread of the outbreak of cholera in the Federal Capital Territory, the FCT Rural Water Supply and Sanitation Agency, RUWASSA has strongly warned residents against open defecation in bushes and uncompleted buildings as well as drinking untreated water including unwashed fruits and vegetables.
The overseeing Director of RUWASSA, Mr. Luke Ifop Ulom said that adherence to open defecation policy is not negotiable especially now that the dry season has set in.
He stated that the idea of using bushes and uncompleted buildings for defecation, besides not healthy, was also dangerous as reptiles are harboured there.
The overseeing Director advised that residents should desist from eating fruits without washing and be mindful of what they drink.
He said the Agency has embarked on sensitization and awareness campaigns across the territory.
According to him, his agency will implement and enforce stringent penalties for open defecation to deter individual from engaging in such un-hygienic practice especially now that cholera epidemic is on the prowl.
He further explained that FCT RUWASSA has been investing in the development of proper sewage system and waste management infrastructure to ensure efficient disposal of human waste.
Ifop Ulom therefore assured that the agency will upgrade and expand existing sanitation facilities to accommodate the growing population and wade off the cholera epidemic.
He said government has made provision for public toilets in strategic location in various parts of the city and urged residents to be hygienic.
According to him, open defecation poses significant health and environmental risk to the residents.
Accordingly, he said addressing the issue was paramount for the well being of communities in FCT.
The agency’s efforts is aimed at reducing the incidence of open defecation, improve public health, and enhance the overall quality of life for rural communities in the FCT.