Abia State commissioner for Environment, Philmone Ogbonna has warned against the dangers of filthy market environment, saying the health hazards are enormous.
Ogbonna told LEADERSHIP this after monitoring the last monthly environmental sanitation exercise in the state at Orie Ụgba Market in Umuahia, the state capital.
He expressed concern about poor sanitation in the market, noting that the government would no longer condone the situation after repeated warnings to the traders to address the issue.
“In view of this, the government will establish a mobile sanitation court in the market to prosecute suspected violators of the State Basic Environmental Sanitation Laws,” he said.
Ogbonna lauded the partnership and participation of soldiers from the 145 Battalion of the Nigerian Army stationed at Umuoriehi in the capital in the exercise.
Speaking also, the chairman of the State House of Assembly Committee on Environment and Urban Renewal, Kalu Mba Nwoke underscored the need for the court.
The member representing Ohafia South constituency, who appreciated the level of participation in the exercise, warned the violaters of the consequences of their attitude.
Out of 108 persons arrested over violation of the exercise, two and 10 were discharged on health grounds and for being students, while the remaining 96 were fined.
