Outrage in Owerri as Waste Heaps Linger on Major Streets Nine Days After Sanitation

Residents and business owners in Owerri, Imo State, have raised concerns over heaps of refuse that remain on major streets and junctions more than nine days after the latest general sanitation exercise in the state.

Several parts of the capital city are still dotted with uncollected waste, with Tetlow Road emerging as one of the most affected areas. Large heaps have been reported around School Road, Christ Church, Lagos Street and other adjoining locations.

At the School Road area around Njiribako Street, residents and passersby have also expressed frustration over the continued presence of refuse dumps. The lingering waste has sparked growing calls for the relevant government agencies to evacuate the heaps and address the situation.

Some residents have taken their concerns to social media, calling out government agencies and officials over what they describe as delays in responding to the growing waste problem. They said the prolonged presence of refuse is creating an unpleasant environment and raising concerns about possible health risks.

Business owners operating around some of the affected areas said the situation is also making it difficult to run their businesses normally. Some complained that customers are reluctant to stay around areas where refuse has accumulated for days.

Passersby have been seen covering their noses while navigating some of the affected streets, as the smell from the decomposing waste adds to the frustration among residents and traders.

The situation has renewed calls from residents for the state authorities and waste management agencies to move beyond periodic sanitation exercises and establish a more effective and consistent system for waste collection and disposal across Owerri.

With major roads and junctions still carrying visible heaps of refuse days after the sanitation exercise, residents are demanding urgent evacuation of the waste and a lasting solution to the city’s growing waste disposal concerns.