Over 100 bags of human faeces have been discovered inside a residential building at No. 16 Ibadan Street, Aba, Abia State.
Officials of the Abia State Environmental Protection Agency (ASEPA), Aba Zone, made the shocking discovery during an inspection of the premises on Tuesday, August 18.
According to ASEPA, the bags of faeces were stored within the compound of the building, raising concerns over the possible spread of disease and the risk of an epidemic.
The environmental officials also reportedly found four basins containing human excreta in the corridor of the building.
More disturbing, the agency said a sewage tank was discovered inside one of the downstairs rooms, directly beneath a bed where occupants reportedly sleep.
Reacting to the discovery, ASEPA sealed the premises to prevent further access while investigations and necessary corrective measures are carried out.
In a statement, the agency described the situation as more than an environmental violation, warning that it posed a serious threat to public health.
The statement read in part
“Even more disturbing, a sewage tank was discovered inside one of the downstairs rooms, directly beneath a bed where occupants sleep daily, despite being aware of the situation.”
ASEPA added that the building was sealed in pursuance of a court order, pending the implementation of the required corrective measures.
According to the agency, the building would only be reopened after the occupants meet the necessary requirements.
The reason for storing such a large quantity of human faeces at the premises has not been officially established.
However, some residents who commented on ASEPA’s social media post alleged that the faeces were being sold to farmers for about N10,000 per bag for use as manure.
The claim has not been independently verified, while ASEPA has yet to officially confirm whether the excreta were being sold or used for agricultural purposes.