The Cross River State Commissioner for Environment, Barr. Bassey Offiong Mensah, has reaffirmed the State Government’s commitment to restoring sanitary standards and returning the state to the level of cleanliness for which it was once renowned.
Mensah made the declaration on Saturday while addressing journalists at the end of the August edition of the statewide environmental sanitation exercise.
He emphasized the need for residents to take environmental hygiene more seriously, expressing concern that despite the restriction of movement between 7:00 a.m. and 10:00 a.m., some residents were still seen trading and playing football during sanitation hours.
“The exercise will not achieve its intended purpose if residents continue to flout the stipulated time frame. Government directives must be strictly obeyed,” he warned.
The Commissioner appealed to residents to cultivate the habit of cleaning their surroundings regularly, stressing that sanitation should be a daily responsibility and not only when enforcement is imminent.
“Cleanliness is next to godliness. Our people must become more environmentally conscious,” he said.
Mensah, however, commended residents and traders in some areas, particularly at 8 Miles and Marian Market, for their improved compliance during the exercise.
He cautioned traders against displaying goods on roadways, stressing that street trading would not be tolerated. He also raised concerns over traders operating beneath high-tension power lines, describing the practice as “extremely dangerous” and urged them to relocate to safer locations.
The Commissioner disclosed that the government plans to set up mobile courts around major markets to enforce environmental laws and sanction offenders.
On waste evacuation, he said the Ministry is collaborating with relevant waste management authorities to ensure that refuse collected during sanitation exercises is promptly evacuated.
He added that the statewide sanitation exercise would be sustained with necessary adjustments to improve effectiveness.
“The ultimate goal is to return Cross River State to what it used to be. Maintaining a clean and healthy environment requires the collective effort of both government and citizens,” Mensah stated.
He called for stronger collaboration among environmental organizations and stakeholders, and commended the Ratel Movement for its continued commitment to environmental initiatives.
Some residents who spoke to journalists applauded the Commissioner’s efforts and expressed confidence in his ability to deliver on the mandate.
At the time of filing this report, defaulters were being prosecuted in line with the laws of the State.
By Sylvia Okoi
