By UCHECHI AFONNE

Residents of Beesam Mafoluku in Oshodi have decried heaps of uncollected refuse that have remained unattended for about two months, raising concerns over environmental and public health risks.

The residents spoke In separate interviews with the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) on Wednesday in Lagos.

They said waste had accumulated along streets and drainage channels, creating offensive odours, attracting flies and making the environment uncomfortable for residents.

They said waste in the streets and drains was causing discomfort and raising fears of health risks in spite of the struggles by the Lagos State Waste Management Authority (LAWMA) to sustain waste management.

The residents attributed the situation to the failure of Private Sector Participation (PSP) operators to evacuate refuse within the period and called for urgent intervention by relevant authorities.

Mrs Sade Martins, a trader and resident of Musari Apena Street, said the development was affecting both residents and businesses.

“The smell is everywhere. Even inside our homes, we cannot escape it. It is affecting customers and daily business,” she said.

Mr Arnold Abasi, another resident, said the situation had made life uncomfortable for many people in the community.

“There is no light most times to keep the house ventilated. The windows cannot remain open because it means being forced to inhale the stench from the refuse,” he said.

Miss Chinyere Akpa, who resides on Musari Apena Street, described the environment as neglected.

“The whole area from Anthony Obe down to Dailys is unkempt. Refuse is everywhere and nobody seems to be taking responsibility.

“It is just like we have been forgotten.

“The situation has forced me to spend less time at home because I have respiratory issues and do not want to experience any serious symptoms,” she said.

A resident of Akande Adebesin Street, who pleaded anonymity, described the refuse situation as unbearable.

“Our refuse point is inside the compound and the waste has overflowed everywhere.

“The surroundings are littered with rubbish and the smell is difficult to cope with. We want the authorities to evacuate it as soon as possible,” she said.

Also speaking, Mr Jamal Bala expressed concern over possible health implications of the development.

“We are already seeing flies everywhere. If nothing is done quickly, it will become a serious health issue for everyone living here.

“We are tired of complaining. Every day the refuse gets worse and nobody is responding to us,” he said.

The residents urged the authorities to ensure regular waste evacuation across communities to prevent environmental degradation and protect public health.

NAN reports that efforts to get the reaction of LAWMA officials proved abortive, as calls and WhatsApp messages sent to them were not responded to as of the time of filing this report. (NAN)

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