In commemoration of World Toilet Day, the Ogun State Government has officially criminalized open defecation and urination as part of its efforts to achieve Sustainable Development Goal (SDG) 6, which focuses on water accessibility, sanitation, and hygiene for all.
The Commissioner for Environment, Mr. Ola Oresanya, announced this during the commissioning of four new public toilets equipped with bio-digesters in border communities along the Lagos-Ibadan Expressway, including Berger, Isheri, Warewa, and Magboro.
The newly commissioned toilets increase the total number of public facilities in the area to 20, while the state-wide count now stands at 80. These facilities aim to eradicate open defecation and establish Ogun as an open-defecation-free state.
According to Mr. Oresanya, criminalizing open urination and defecation marks the beginning of rigorous enforcement measures and strict penalties for offenders. He emphasized that this initiative will not only support the attainment of SDG Goal 6 but also enhance the aesthetic beauty of the state and improve the overall well-being of residents.
“This is a significant step towards making Ogun State open-defecation-free. It aligns with our commitment to SDG 6, ensuring water accessibility, proper sanitation, and hygiene for all,” he stated.
The Commissioner also highlighted the broader impact of the initiative on environmental health and quality of life in the state. “The enforcement of this law, coupled with the provision of public toilets, will promote a cleaner and healthier environment for all residents,” he added.
