Stakeholders have raised the alarm over the widespread practice of open defecation in Cross River State, warning that its persistence poses serious risks to public water sources and undermines human dignity.

The concerns were aired during a public hearing on the proposed Open Defecation Prohibition Bill at the mini hall of the Cross River State House of Assembly, where participants called for urgent and enforceable sanitation measures across the state.

Open defecation, often practised in ravines, unfinished buildings and drainage systems, was identified as a major driver of environmental pollution and disease transmission. Speakers noted that, despite national targets to eliminate the practice, progress has remained slow.

Data presented at the hearing showed that about 41 per cent of the state’s population still defecates openly. The figures also revealed limited access to basic water, sanitation and hygiene services, with only eight per cent of schools, 0.4 per cent of healthcare facilities and six per cent of public places having such amenities.

The proposed bill seeks to provide a legal framework for enforcing sanitation standards, strengthen existing WASH policies and accelerate efforts to end open defecation in the state by 2030.

Supporters of the legislation said its passage would introduce accountability mechanisms, improve resource mobilisation and safeguard public health, particularly for vulnerable groups.

Speaking at the hearing, a representative of Self Help Africa, Ferdinand Anok, stressed the urgency of passing the bill, noting that significant gaps remain in meeting sanitation-related Sustainable Development Goals.

Stakeholders expressed optimism that, if enacted, the bill would position Cross River as a reference point for other states in tackling open defecation, adding that the public hearing underscored the state’s commitment to addressing sanitation challenges and improving hygiene standards.