The statewide lockdown directive issued by Governor Chukwuma Soludo of Anambra State to allow residents clean gutters and drainage channels across the state recorded significant compliance, with many residents actively taking part in the exercise.
The sanitation programme, which began at about 6 a.m. and concluded by 10 a.m., witnessed widespread participation as residents enthusiastically engaged in the cleanup. Meanwhile, several motorists who violated the restriction were apprehended by the police and other security operatives for interrogation.
However, concerns arose over what many described as arbitrary enforcement after security personnel impounded vehicles transporting national newspapers from neighbouring Asaba in Delta State to Onitsha for distribution to vendors. The action appeared to contradict Soludo’s directive, which exempted individuals performing essential services, including journalists and health workers, from arrest.
Speaking on the outcome of the exercise during a telephone interview, the state Commissioner for Information, Dr. Law Mefor, described it as successful. He added that the sanitation programme would be conducted regularly to eliminate debris from every part of the state and promote a healthier environment for residents.
