‘A Cleaner Asaba Is My Priority,’ Says Asagba Azinge During Community Sanitation Exercise
Asagba Azinge Leads Sanitation Drive, Renews Call for Cleaner, Safer Asaba
Monarch Reaffirms Commitment to Environmental Sanitation
THE Asagba of Asaba, His Royal Majesty, Prof. Epiphany Chigbogu Azinge, SAN, OON, FNIALS, FICMC, LLD (HC), KSJI, KSG, has reaffirmed his commitment to promoting a cleaner, healthier and safer Asaba Kingdom, declaring that environmental sanitation remains central to the community’s sustainable development.
The monarch made the declaration on Saturday while leading a sanitation exercise across the urban villages of Asaba, where he joined residents and community leaders in clearing refuse and blocked drainage channels.
“A safer and cleaner Asaba is all I strive for. Cleanliness is not just about beauty; it is about protecting lives, preventing disease, and showing the world the pride we take in our community,” Asagba Azinge said.
Palace, Community Leaders Join Clean-Up Campaign
The sanitation exercise was led by the Asagba alongside Obi Lt. Chukwuemeka Ajufoh, Chairman of the Asaba Community Sanitation Taskforce, members of the Palace Chiefs and other community stakeholders.
The team moved through several urban villages to sensitise residents on the importance of environmental hygiene while participating in the clearing of refuse dumps and drainage systems.
During the inspection, the monarch expressed concern over the volume of debris obstructing drainage channels in Umudaike and Umuekwo villages, located in the Ugbomanta and Umuaji quarters respectively.
Residents Given Deadline to Clear Drainages
Following the inspection, Asagba Azinge directed residents and shop owners in the affected areas to remove refuse and clear blocked drainage channels within 24 hours.
He warned that properties previously sealed over sanitation-related violations would remain closed until affected occupants complied with the directive.
The monarch stressed that proper waste disposal and regular environmental sanitation are essential to preventing flooding, controlling disease outbreaks and maintaining a healthy living environment.
Call for Collective Responsibility
Asagba Azinge commended Obi Lt. Chukwuemeka Ajufoh and members of the Community Sanitation Taskforce for their commitment to improving environmental standards across the kingdom.
He urged Asaba indigenes, residents, landlords and business owners to take ownership of their surroundings by observing monthly sanitation exercises and supporting community cleanliness initiatives.
The traditional ruler further directed the taskforce to sustain the campaign and ensure that every street and household is reached through continuous sensitisation.
Clean Environment Seen as Economic Asset
The monarch noted that maintaining a clean environment would not only improve public health but also enhance Asaba’s attractiveness to investors, tourists and visitors.
He also called on government agencies responsible for environmental sanitation to strengthen collaboration with the Asaba Community Sanitation Taskforce in promoting a cleaner and more habitable city.
The exercise concluded with a renewed appeal for sustained partnership between the Palace, community leaders and relevant government institutions to preserve Asaba as a safe, clean and environmentally friendly capital.
