By joshua NYCN Calls for Evacuation of Mentally ill Persons, Improves Environmental Sanitation in Ebonyi
By Our Correspondent
The National Youth Council of Nigeria (NYCN), Ebonyi State Chapter, led by its Chairman, Comr. Douglas Ochishi, has called on the Ebonyi State Ministry of Environment and the Ministry of Internal Security to take urgent and proactive measures to address the increasing presence of persons with apparent mental health challenges on the streets of Abakaliki metropolis.
The NYCN Chairman made the call while interacting with journalists at the NYCN House, Pa- Ngele Oruta Township Stadium, Abakaliki.
He described the situation as a matter of particular concern, noting that the growing number of vulnerable persons living and moving around major streets could create challenges for public safety, sanitation and the orderly development of the state capital.
Ochishi urged the relevant authorities to establish appropriate mechanisms for identifying and assisting persons with mental health challenges, including medical assessment, rehabilitation and, where necessary, safe evacuation from the streets.
He also called for periodic monitoring of the movement of vulnerable persons into the state, particularly through the state’s entry points, while stressing that such measures should be carried out humanely and in accordance with the law.
The NYCN Chairman further appealed to security agencies to investigate reports concerning the possible movement of vulnerable persons into Abakaliki during nighttime.
He emphasized that the authorities should identify and address any individuals or groups who may be exploiting or abandoning persons with mental health challenges in the metropolis.
Beyond the issue of vulnerable persons, Comr. Ochishi called on the Ministry of Environment to intensify efforts toward environmental sanitation and waste evacuation across Abakaliki.
He specifically drew attention to areas around Kpirikpiri, opposite St. Patrick Catholic Church, the back of the International Market around Lots 2 and 3, and adjoining streets where accumulated refuse is reportedly affecting movement and the general appearance of the environment.
He also urged environmental supervisors and relevant local authorities to strengthen routine monitoring of drainage channels and gutters to prevent blockage and flooding. According to him, regular waste evacuation, proper drainage maintenance and effective environmental monitoring would contribute significantly to maintaining a clean, safe and orderly capital city.
The NYCN Chairman said that decisive action by the relevant ministries and agencies would further complement the achievements of the Ebonyi State Government under the People’s Charter of Needs Administration, particularly in the area of environmental development and urban renewal.