The Obong of Calabar Executive Forum (OCEF) has appealed to Governor Ben Ayade’s government for the immediate evacuation of heaps of refuse adorning major streets and roads in the Calabar metropolis.

The forum stated this in a statement endorsed by its chairman, Gershom Henshaw and secretary, Maurice Ekpenyong.

It expressed displeasure over the ”embarrassment” caused by the refuse that had taken over major roads and streets in the capital city, warning that the heaps of refuse are a health hazard that could lead to an epidemic outbreak in Calabar if not urgently addressed.

The OCEF described the situation as unacceptable.

”The refuse heaps in some areas have blocked traffic flow as well as entrances of residents to their houses, with emanating stench polluting the environment, thereby exposing the public to untold hardship and sickness,” the forum disclosed. ”There should be regular, prompt and sufficient funding for the waste management agency and other relevant government agencies saddled with the responsibility of waste management in the state to reverse this ugly trend which has lingered for some time now.”

The OCEF also advised residents to cooperate with the government to keep their environment clean.

It further stated that cleanliness was important as the Christmas season approached with the expected influx of visitors into Calabar.

”Environmental sanitation should be prioritised at all times for the wellbeing of the people,” it stated.

(NAN)