The Municipal Chief Executive (MCE) for the La Nkwantanang-Madina Municipal Assembly, Hon. Alhaji Ibrahim Fuseini Faila, has revealed that nine traders were arrested for defying a nationwide clean-up exercise ordered by President John Dramani Mahama to reduce flooding in vulnerable communities.
The two-day exercise, which focuses on desilting choked drains and improving sanitation, forms part of the government’s efforts to ensure the free flow of stormwater and mitigate perennial flooding, particularly in Accra.
Speaking during the exercise on Saturday, Hon. Faila said the President’s directive had galvanized communities across the municipality to actively participate in the clean-up campaign.
“The President directed a two-day national clean-up exercise to clear choked gutters to allow the free flow of water and help mitigate flooding, especially in Accra. The directive has strengthened the work we have already been doing and encouraged more members of the community to get involved,” he said.
According to the MCE, thousands of residents from communities including Madina Market, Zongo, Adenta, Teiman, Oyarifa, and Danfa turned out to participate in the exercise, demonstrating a shared commitment to improving sanitation and protecting the environment.
“I think almost everyone is out showing love and support for the community. So far, Madina is doing well, and we will ensure that this does not end with the President’s directive. Sustainability is the key, and we are committed to making Madina one of the cleanest and safest places to live,” he added.
Hon. Faila disclosed that before the clean-up exercise officially began at 7:30 a.m., the Assembly’s task force had embarked on an enforcement operation against traders who ignored directives prohibiting trading during the exercise.
He said seven traders were initially arrested and issued spot fines, while two additional traders were later apprehended inside the market, bringing the total number of arrests to nine.
Those who fail to pay the prescribed fines, he warned, will be arraigned before the court on Monday.
“We are enforcing the law because this exercise is not about any individual. It is about protecting lives, safeguarding our environment, and preventing floods. Everyone has a responsibility to support this initiative for the safety of our communities,” the MCE stressed.
The nationwide clean-up exercise forms part of broader government measures aimed at improving environmental sanitation, preventing flooding, and encouraging citizens to take greater responsibility for keeping their communities clean, especially during the rainy season.
By Sampson Kumah Ifeetwube Taachaa Elvis
About The Author
