The Ogun State government has mandated that all households lacking toilet facilities must install them within the next three to six months or face sanctions.
This initiative is part of the state’s efforts to combat the spread of cholera, which is currently affecting 30 states across the federation.
Additionally, the government has ordered all public and private schools, markets, parks, garages, petrol stations, and mechanic villages within the state to ensure the availability of toilet facilities and running water for proper hygiene and sanitation.
In a statement released on Saturday, Kayode Akinmade, Special Adviser on Media and Strategy to Governor Dapo Abiodun, outlined these precautionary measures. He emphasized the governor’s concern about the potential for an outbreak in Ogun, given its proximity to Lagos and the high level of interaction between the two states.
The precautionary measures include:
– All houses must have toilet facilities. Houses without a toilet should convert a room into a toilet. Residents have a grace period of three to six months for compliance.
– Drinking only safe water that is boiled or chlorinated.
– Washing hands with soap and water after using the toilet and before handling food.
– Washing fruits and vegetables properly with safe water before consumption and preparation.
– Cooking food thoroughly and buying only hot food.
– Using water from reliable sources.
The Ministry of Environment will oversee strict compliance with these measures, and violators will face legal consequences accordingly.