The STG-WASH chairman affirmed the bill’s significance in advancing public health and environmental sanitation within the state.
By TheInvestigator
The Cross River State Task Group on Water, Sanitation, and Hygiene (STG-WASH) held its monthly meeting on Thursday, June 19, 2025. At the meeting, the State Open Defecation (Prohibition) Draft Bill was reviewed.
Chaired by Engr. Okon Ita, Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Water Resources, the meeting facilitated an in-depth discussion on the bill’s clauses and provisions. The primary aim was to ensure the legislation’s effectiveness, clarity, and alignment with the state’s broader Water, Sanitation and Hygiene (WASH) objectives.
During the review, members meticulously examined key sections, including definitions, specific prohibitions against open defecation, and penalties for violations. Significant attention was given to the “Prohibition” section, which stipulates that no person shall “deliberately urinate, defecate or dispose of urine or excreta on any place other than household toilets, public toilets or any other place designated for that purpose.” The appropriateness and deterrent potential of associated penalties, which include imprisonment, fines, and community service, were thoroughly discussed.
A substantial part of the discussion focused on the “Provision of Toilet Facilities in Household and Public Institutions” section. The STG-WASH underscored the critical necessity for all house owners and owners of public places to ensure adequate provision of toilet facilities.
Furthermore, the responsibility for new constructions to incorporate proper sanitation infrastructure was highlighted, with non-compliance leading to penalties for individuals and companies.
The roles and responsibilities of State and Local Governments, as well as private organisations, were comprehensively assessed. The STG-WASH emphasised the importance of government commitment to providing and maintaining public toilet facilities, particularly for vulnerable populations and in strategic locations. The private sector’s crucial role in ensuring compliance within their premises and supporting public sanitation efforts was also acknowledged as vital for the bill’s successful implementation.
In conclusion, the STG-WASH, under the leadership of Engr. Okon Ita provided valuable input and conducted a comprehensive review of the Cross River State Open Defecation (Prohibition) Draft Bill.
The STG-WASH chairman affirmed the bill’s significance in advancing public health and environmental sanitation within the state. This meeting occurred nine days after Governor Bassey Edet Otu signed the Cross River State Water Supply and Sanitation Law No. 5, 2025.
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