Rainy season and the menace of refuse dumping in Ilorin drainages
By Mosunmola Ayobami, Ilorin
The rainy season is here once again. Like every season, it comes with its own environmental challenges. While some of these hazards are natural, many are the result of human activities.
One of the recurring problems during the rainy season in parts of Ilorin metropolis is the indiscriminate dumping of refuse into drainage channels. This harmful practice contributes to the blockage of drainages, flooding, and in some cases, the outbreak of waterborne diseases.
To address this issue, continuous public sensitization is essential. Discouraging these environmentally harmful habits can go a long way in protecting public health and the ecosystem.
It is important that government agencies and stakeholders consistently engage with residents through education and enforcement. Regular sensitization on proper waste disposal practices can significantly reduce the habit of dumping waste in drainages.
In line with this need, lawmakers in the Kwara State House of Assembly recently raised a motion calling for urgent awareness campaigns to curb the menace of refuse dumping and mitigate flooding. The motion, moved by Hon. Bello Yinusa Oniboki (Afon Constituency) and seconded by Hon. Lawal Ayansola Salihu (Ipaye/Malete/Oloru Constituency), emphasized the growing crisis.
Leading the debate, Hon. Oniboki lamented that indiscriminate dumping has reached alarming levels in several communities. He described it as not only an eyesore but also a serious public health risk. He noted that overflowing drainages, especially during heavy rains, damage property and infrastructure—as seen in recent days.
Hon. Oniboki commended Governor AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq for consistently prioritizing environmental sanitation through activities such as annual desilting and ensuring that new roads include proper drainage systems. However, he expressed concern that despite these efforts, some citizens persist in dumping refuse into drainages during rainfall, leading to blocked water channels, stagnant water, damaged roads, and increased flooding.
According to the Nigeria Meteorological Agency (NiMet), Kwara State is one of the states most vulnerable to flooding. The lawmaker urged residents to change their attitude toward waste disposal to prevent further damage.
The Assembly recommended that the Governor direct the Ministry of Environment to empower Environmental Health Officers to enforce the Environmental Sanitation Law. They also urged greater collaboration with traditional rulers, religious leaders, NGOs, and community-based organizations to intensify public awareness on the dangers of poor waste management and living in flood-prone areas.
If these measures are implemented and embraced by the public, the rains can return to being the blessing they are meant to be—nourishing the land and bringing harvests, rather than dirt, disease, and destruction.
