By PAMELA EBOH, Awka

Operation Clean and Healthy Anambra (OCHA Brigade) has raised concerns over the rising increase in environmental abuse, which include, public defecation and indiscriminate urination in the state.

It accused visitors from neighbouring states of being the major offenders alleging that many of the visitors disregard Anambra’s environmental sanitation laws despite observing proper sanitation practices in their home states.

In a statement made available to journalists on Friday, OCHA Brigade reminded the public that the ban on open defecation and urination in unauthorized places remains fully in force across Anambra State.

It warned that anyone found violating the law would be arrested and prosecuted.

While expressing concern over the increasing cases of environmental abuse, particularly by travellers and visitors passing through the state, the agency added, “Investigations indicate that many offenders from neighbouring states deliberately ignore Anambra’s environmental sanitation regulations.

“All visitors to familiarise themselves with designated public conveniences before relieving themselves.

“OCHA Brigade is advising everyone visiting Anambra State to always ask where designated toilets are located. Public conveniences have been provided in markets, motor parks and along major roads for that purpose,” the statement said.

“Commercial drivers, traders and travellers are warned against indiscriminate dumping of refuse, particularly in drainage channels, as well as urinating along roads and other public places.

“If you are pressed, ask where to urinate. Do not litter Anambra’s environment with waste. Keep used sachet water nylon, cans, bottles, biscuit wrappers and other refuse inside your vehicle until you find the nearest waste bin.

“At Upper Iweka, Onitsha, mobile waste bins have been strategically positioned for public use.”

The Agency further stressed that maintaining a clean and healthy environment is a collective responsibility and essential to preserving Anambra State as a safe and attractive state for residents and visitors.

It also reaffirmed Its commitment to enforcing environmental sanitation laws in line with the vision of Governor Chukwuma Soludo’s administration.

While urging members of the public to report environmental offenders to the nearest OCHA Brigade office to ensure that violators are brought to justice, it added,

“Government has invested, and continues to invest, substantial resources in keeping the environment clean, yet some people still choose to violate the law. This must stop.”