A magistrate court in Kano State has sentenced a man, Mohammed Saidu, to two weeks in prison and imposed a fine of N100,000 for storing bags of human faeces outside his residence, creating a public health hazard and causing distress to neighbours.
Saidu, who works as a septic tank evacuator, was arraigned after residents of his neighbourhood reported the offensive odour emanating from his property to environmental authorities.
Delivering judgment, Magistrate Halima Wali described the defendant’s actions as inconsiderate and detrimental to the health and well-being of residents. The court ordered his detention for 14 days and directed him to pay a N100,000 fine.
The court heard that Saidu allegedly stored dozens of bags containing human waste at his residence, reportedly with the intention of selling them to farmers for use as fertiliser, a practice known in some parts of the region.
Speaking on the incident, a local community leader, Musa Abdullahi, said he was first alerted to the matter after complaints from residents.
“I think he had close to 50 bags of faeces the first time the complaint reached me,” Abdullahi said.
According to residents, the stench from the property became unbearable, making it difficult for them to enjoy their homes. One of the complainants, Samaila Inuwa, said neighbours initially attempted to resolve the issue amicably.
“We spoke to him about it, but he didn’t stop,” Inuwa said.
Saidu pleaded guilty in court to a charge of endangering public health.
Before issuing her ruling, Magistrate Wali personally visited the property to inspect the bags of waste. She subsequently ordered Saidu to remove all the faeces from the premises and undertake not to repeat the offence.
Inuwa expressed relief over the court’s intervention, noting that living conditions in the area had improved significantly.
“Finally, our neighbourhood is enjoyable once more without any bad smell,” he said.
Abdullahi revealed that he had previously warned Saidu and persuaded him to remove the waste when the issue first surfaced.
“When he first started it, I spoke to him about it and he packed them out and stopped. I did not know when he resumed,” he said.
The community leader added that residents bypassed traditional mediation this time and reported the matter directly to authorities.
He said efforts would be made to restore harmony in the community after Saidu’s release.
“My mission is for everybody in this area to live in peace. When he is released, we will talk to him and the neighbours again,” Abdullahi said.
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