Residents of Kashere community in Akko Local Government Area of Gombe State have expressed concerns over the indiscriminate dumping of refuse in the area.
The residents also pointed out that poor environmental hygiene often leads to sicknesses in the community.
Some committee members observed that the lack of a proper waste disposal and effective usage of drainage system have resulted in poor environmental conditions that contaminate the community’s well water.
Additionally, the lack of access to clean potable water has pushed many to consume well water, which, by mere appearance, does not seem healthy.
Well water is commonly consumed by many residents in Kashere community.
Lohya David, a student at Federal University Kashere, noted that it is common to see refuse being dumped close to wells that provide drinking water to the residents. She called on community leaders to encourage cleanliness within the environment.
“It’s so bad, and now it has resulted in mosquitoes and a bad smell within the areas and community. I am currently down with malaria and typhoid. I believe it’s because of the water and mosquitoes, as the refuse generates mosquitoes that come back to live with us. The community leaders and sanitation officials should sensitize people on where to dump their refuse and maintain good hygiene,” she said.
Most of the drainage systems are choked with dirt, resulting in stagnant water bodies during the rainy season.
Another resident, Fatima Muhammed, emphasized the need for people to start disposing of refuse properly to avoid spreading diseases. She added that it is a collective responsibility and everyone should be held accountable, not just the leaders.
Similarly, Ibrahim Haruna, a pharmacist and graduate of Modibbo Adama University of Technology (MAUTECH), Yola, said many cases of malaria and typhoid in the community can be linked to poor environmental hygiene.
“The most common illnesses I handle here are malaria and typhoid. What is actually causing this is the dirt and stagnant waters, which are breeding grounds for mosquitoes. The community leaders should implement effective waste collection and disposal systems. This will help reduce the rate of environmental crises we have these days,” he said.
Mai Anguwa Muhammed Usman, a community head, expressed concern over the government’s negligence in constructing a refuse ground for the community. He said the residents are forced to dump refuse wherever they deem fit, which has impacted their health and well-being.
He cited a recent cholera outbreak that affected the community, adding that the government had previously promised to provide waste dumps but failed to follow through.
“All we need from the government is to help us with proper waste dumps because our people are falling sick every day,” he said.
He also called on residents to dispose of waste properly, especially during the rainy season, to curb the spread of diseases and prevent flooding.
