Deborah Akinyosoye
The Lagos State government has warned members of the Zongo community in the state to stop open defecation to avoid diseases and environmental pollution.
Dr. Oladapo Asiyanbi, Permanent Secretary, Lagos State Health District V, issued the warning to residents of the community in Gbethrome, Badagry West
LCDA, citing that it could lead to a cholera outbreak in that axis of the state.
Asiyanbi stated that the severe health risks associated with open defecation contribute. He urged residents to ensure that their homes have proper toilets with covers, as mandated by the Lagos State Government.
He made this statement during a sensitisation campaign on the cholera outbreak, held with key community stakeholders in the Zongo Community, Gbethrome, recently.
He said, “The community has already recorded about 54 confirmed cases of cholera, with 14 resulting in death. These cases have been traced to the widespread practice of open defecation within the Zongo community.”
He also directed sanitation officers to inspect buildings within the community, especially houses without toilet facilities, and he said that any house without toilet facilities, the owner of such house would face legal action.
According to Asiyanbi, “We cannot return lost lives, but we can rebuild houses. Any building without a toilet facility will be demolished because the Lagos State Government prioritises the health and safety of its residents.” He further stressed that there should be a minimum distance of 30 meters between toilets and houses or wells.
Dr. Asiyanbi described open defecation as a serious offence in Lagos State, explaining that cholera is often transmitted through flies from uncovered toilets, which contaminates food and water.
He also advised food vendors in the community to undergo health screenings at least twice a year at their local Primary Health Centres to ensure they are not carriers of cholera bacteria.
Also speaking at the event, the Director of Medical Services, Dr. Amina Ahmad Bello, enlightened the community about the nature of cholera. She explained that the disease is caused by bacteria found in dirty environments and contaminated water. It results in symptoms such as diarrhoea and vomiting, and infected individuals should be taken to a healthcare centre immediately.
She clarified that cholera is not contagious but is primarily spread through contaminated food and water. Dr. Ahmad recommended boiling drinking water for at least 60 minutes, allowing it to cool in a covered container before consumption.
Also at the event, Chairman of Badagry West LCDA, Hon. Gbenu Joseph, expressed his appreciation to the Lagos State Government, especially Governor Babajide Olusola Sanwo-Olu, for the swift response during the outbreak. He also commended the medical and sanitation teams for their dedication.