By Joshua Uti
Rivers Govt Threatens to Sack Waste Contractors Over Poor Performance
The Rivers State Government has warned waste contractors across the state to sit up or risk losing their contracts over what it described as poor handling of refuse evacuation.
The warning was made public in a statement issued in Port Harcourt on Wednesday by Hector Igbikiowubo, Senior Special Adviser on Media to the State Administrator, Vice Admiral Ibok-Ete Ibas (retd.), and shared with journalists.
The state government expressed dissatisfaction with the growing piles of waste in parts of the state and said it would no longer tolerate the inefficiency of some service providers. It noted that uncollected refuse poses serious health dangers and distorts the cleanliness and image of the state.
The statement made it clear that any contractor who fails to deliver on their responsibilities will have their contract terminated without delay.
Read also: Rivers Moves Against Poor Waste Disposal
In a bid to boost the current waste management efforts, the government disclosed that it has reactivated an abandoned burrow pit as an extra dumpsite and is also upgrading the existing one near the Airport Access Road to improve capacity and efficiency.
Residents were urged to use approved dumping sites and follow proper disposal methods. The public was also encouraged to report any refuse left uncollected for more than 48 hours so the government can take prompt action.
The Rivers State Government restated its zero-tolerance for negligence in public service and said underperforming contractors risk being blacklisted and replaced.
The administration said keeping the environment clean and safe is a shared duty and called on all residents, waste handlers, and government officials to take active responsibility in ensuring a healthier and more sustainable Rivers State.
