The Cross River State House of Assembly has passed the Open Defecation Prohibition Bill to improve public health and sanitation across the state.
The legislation prohibits open defecation in public areas and encourages the use of proper toilet facilities.
The bill followed the report of the House Committee on Water Resources and Sanitation, chaired by Kingsley Ntui of Etung State Constituency, highlighting the health risks associated with open defecation, including cholera, diarrhoea, and typhoid.
Ntui acknowledged government efforts, supported by organisations like UNICEF and Self Help Africa, noting that eight local government areas in the state have already been declared open-defecation-free.
He emphasised that challenges such as limited sanitation infrastructure, poor access to clean water, and low awareness must be addressed to achieve full compliance.
The lawmakers stated that the bill aligns with national and international sanitation initiatives, aiming to enhance environmental cleanliness and citizens’ well-being.
Speaker Elvert Ayambem praised the committee and affirmed the Assembly’s commitment to people-oriented legislation that promotes a cleaner, healthier environment.
