By Christiana Gokyo, Jos
The Plateau Environmental Protection and Sanitation Agency (PEPSA) has condemned the obstruction and threats allegedly faced by some of its personnel while carrying out a sanitation exercise around the Chorbe/Yankaji area of Jos.
The sanitation exercise was part of the agency’s routine responsibility to ensure that public spaces, markets and areas where food and other essential commodities are handled meet acceptable sanitation and environmental health standards.
A statement issued to journalists in Jos on Thursday and signed by the Director of Administration for the Director-General, Mr Izang D. Pate, said the exercise was conducted alongside market leaders as part of ongoing efforts to engage stakeholders and promote compliance with sanitation requirements.
The Yankaji area, which is an important location for the preparation and sale of meat to residents of Plateau State, has raised significant sanitation and environmental health concerns.
According to the agency, despite repeated calls for proper sanitation, operators of the Yankaji market had not adequately cleaned their premises.
PEPSA said when its personnel arrived to conduct the sanitation exercise and discharge their lawful responsibilities, market operators prevented them from carrying out the work.
The situation reportedly escalated, with the officials allegedly subjected to threats and intimidation, prompting security personnel to intervene and safely evacuate the PEPSA team and market union officials from the premises.
The agency said one person sustained an injury during the process and is currently receiving medical attention at a hospital.
PEPSA described the development as concerning, stressing that government officials carrying out their lawful duties should not be subjected to intimidation, threats or mob action.
The agency acknowledged that sanitation enforcement could sometimes lead to disagreements with affected individuals and businesses, but said such disagreements should be resolved through dialogue and established legal channels rather than threats, intimidation or physical obstruction.
PEPSA called on traders, market leaders, residents and other stakeholders to remain calm and avoid actions that could further escalate the situation.
The agency also appreciated the security personnel who responded to the incident and helped ensure the safe evacuation of its staff.
PEPSA said it would continue to discharge its statutory responsibilities across Plateau State, stressing that the protection of public health and the environment could not be compromised.
The agency urged members of the public, market leaders and operators to cooperate with government officials and support efforts aimed at creating cleaner, safer and healthier communities.