Asaba, March 18, 2025 – The Director General of the Delta State Capital Territory, Chief Patrick Ukah, has raised concerns about the environmental and security issues around the Koka Flyover in Asaba. Speaking with journalists, he shared the government’s efforts to keep the city clean and safe.
Keeping Delta Clean
Chief Ukah announced the launch of the second phase of the Secure, Clean, and Green Capital Territory campaign. This initiative educates people on the importance of keeping their surroundings tidy. He explained that the government is working closely with the Ministry of Environment, the Waste Management Board, and the environmental task force to improve sanitation.
“We have a company regularly cleaning Koka Junction, but people keep dumping waste irresponsibly,” he said. He emphasized that the media should help create awareness about cleanliness.
Tackling Security Challenges
On security, Chief Ukah highlighted the problem of people gathering under the Koka Flyover in search of daily jobs. He explained that the government had previously built a convergence centre in Oko, where labourers could wait for jobs instead of standing by the roadside.
However, despite these efforts, many still prefer to gather at Koka Junction, making it difficult to manage security. “It is not easy to move people forcefully because the constitution allows freedom of movement,” he explained. The government is now trying to beautify the flyover area to make it impossible for people to sleep under the bridge.
Additionally, a new divisional police station is being built near Onitsha Park to improve security in the area. Chief Ukah also mentioned discussions with community leaders, including the Sariki Hausa, to find lasting solutions.
Challenges in Managing Waste
Chief Ukah expressed frustration over the attitude of some people towards waste disposal. He noted that many people dump garbage in public spaces, despite the presence of waste bins. “Some people even dress well for church but secretly dump waste in nylon bags on the streets,” he lamented.
He called on the media to expose those who violate sanitation rules and urged residents to report offenders. “We once caught someone in the act, and these are the kinds of things the press should help us address,” he added.
Encouraging Civic Responsibility
Chief Ukah stressed the need for people to take responsibility for their environment. He announced the “Operation Know Your Neighbor” initiative, encouraging residents to be aware of who lives near them and report suspicious activities.
He also noted that other projects, such as an international market and a private-public partnership cemetery, were ongoing. However, sanitation and security issues continue to take up much of the government’s attention.
The Problem with the Summit Junction Pedestrian Bridge
When asked about the pedestrian bridge at Summit Junction, which remains unused, Chief Ukah urged the public to make use of it for their safety. He warned that anyone who gets hit by a car while crossing the road illegally may not get justice in court.
A Call for Cooperation
In conclusion, Chief Ukah appealed to the public to support the government’s efforts in making the capital city cleaner and safer. “The media must raise their voice. If you love God, you must love your environment. Cleanliness is next to godliness,” he said.
He also urged people to learn from cities like Uyo and Calabar, where a culture of cleanliness is well established. “The government is trying its best, but people must also take responsibility for keeping Delta State clean and secure,” he added.
