Oyo:Lawmaker, Comforter Calls for Enhanced Collaboration to Combat Cholera

The Lawmaker representing Ibadan North Constituency 1 at the Oyo State House of Assembly, Hon. Dr. Olufunke Comforter Adeniyi-Olajide has called for the need to strengthen Collaboration and Enforcement for Cholera Control and Prevention in Oyo State.

This motion was moved by the Chairman, House Committee on Women Affairs and Community Development during a plenary session which was headed by the Speaker of the Oyo State House of Assembly, Rt. Hon. Edward Adebo Ogundoyin. She stated that cholera is a highly infectious disease caused by the ingestion of food and water contaminated by a bacteria called Vibrio cholerae, leading to severe diarrhea and dehydration, which can be fatal if untreated early.

“The outbreak of this dreaded disease has been recurrent in various parts of the Country including Oyo State, posing a significant public health challenge and endangering the lives of residents, especially in densely populated and underserved communities.

“This year’s outbreak highlights the urgent need for a comprehensive strategy to combat the spread of this preventable disease. Due to the escalating situation in surrounding states, this disease poses a significant threat to our State and we must take proactive steps to ensure it does not spread. Cholera, a highly contagious diarrhoeal disease, thrives in environments with poor sanitation and lack of access to safe water, complicated by open defeacation practices. While our state possesses various laws and policies concerning sanitation maintenance, ensuring their active enforcement is crucial.

“Despite efforts by the government and health authorities, there are gaps in the enforcement of sanitation regulations, access to clean water, and public awareness about cholera prevention measures. These gaps contribute to the persistence of cholera outbreaks.
Therefore, strengthening collaboration among stakeholders can enhance the effectiveness of cholera prevention strategies, ensuring a coordinated and sustained effort to address the root causes of the disease and mitigate its impact on public health. Enforcing existing sanitation laws and regulations, along with implementing new policies aimed at improving access to toilet facilities, safe water and sanitation infrastructure, can significantly reduce the incidence of cholera in the state,” she observed.

The House however urged the State Government under the leadership of His Excellency, Engr. Seyi MAKINDE through the Ministry of Health and the Ministry of Environment to strengthen collaboration with local government authorities, healthcare providers, and community organizations for comprehensive cholera prevention and response strategies and also His Excellency Engr. Seyi Makinde to among other remarkable steps taken toward improving the healthy living of the citizens of the state, consider the re-introduction/bringing back of monthly environmental sanitation exercise to further instill the culture of cleanliness in the State.