Chairman of Yewa North Local Government, Dr. Olusola Akinbode, has called on residents of Ayetoro and other communities within the Council Area to maintain a clean environment as part of efforts to safeguard their lives and properties.

Dr. Akinbode made the call while speaking with Journalists after the weekly environmental sanitation exercise in Ayetoro, the headquarters of Yewa North Local Government.

The Council Boss stressed that environmental cleanliness remained a critical component of community security, urging property owners to clear overgrown bushes, dismantle illegal shanties and demolish dilapidated structures that would serve as hideouts for criminals.

"A clean environment is not only essential for healthy living but also for the security of our communities. We must all take responsibility by clearing bushy areas around our homes, removing illegal structures and pulling down abandoned buildings that may be used by miscreants as hideout," he said.

He reiterated the commitment of his administration to ensuring a safe, healthy and conducive environment for residents across the local government area.

Also speaking during the exercise, Director of Water Resources and Environmental Sanitation, Mr. Samuel Wojuade, warned residents against indiscriminate refuse disposal and open defecation, describing both practices as major environmental and public health concerns.

"It is unacceptable for residents to dump refuse in drainage channels and waterways. Such practices contribute to flooding, environmental pollution and disease outbreaks. We must also put an end to open defecation, which remains prevalent in some parts of the community," he said.

Mr. Wojuade, urged residents to embrace proper waste management practices and support government efforts aimed at promoting a cleaner and healthier environment.

In her remarks, the Iyaloja of Ayetoro, Chief Mrs. Sekinat Fatogun, commended the local government for its proactive approach to environmental sanitation and pledged the support of market women and residents in sustaining a clean environment.

"We appreciate the efforts of the local government in promoting environmental cleanliness. We will continue to encourage our people to comply with sanitation regulations and contribute to keeping Ayetoro clean and safe," she said.

The weekly environmental sanitation exercise attracted residents, community leaders and government officials who participated in the clean-up activities across strategic locations within the town.

Lateef Akintunde,

ZIO, YNLG