Gov declares state of emergency on water, open defecation

Ogun State Governor, Dapo Abiodun has declared a state of emergency on water, sanitation and hygiene sector in the state.

Abiodun made the declarations in Abeokuta when he received the report of a Steering Committee for the Implementation of the Water, Sanitation and Hygiene Programme, (WASH) in the state.

The governor specifically declared a war against open defecation in the state, disclosing that 22 percent of the state’s residents indulge in the act.

The governor, who stressed the need for the reform of the water and sanitation sector, said that rural water supply and sanitation needs of residents would be prioritised in line with goal six of the Sustainable Development Goals, (SDGs).

According to him, the declaration signals a high level of political will within the state to provide a focused governance structure and appropriate budgetary provision to deliver on Goal Six, which is to provide sustainable, equitable and reliable potable water as well as improve sanitation services to the people.