An open letter to:
1. Commissioners, Ministry of Health and Human Services; Ministry of Water Resources, Environment and Climate Change.
2. Benue State Environmental Sanitation Authority (BENSESA)
3. National Environmental Standards and Regulations Enforcement Agency (NESREA).
Public Concern on Air Pollution and Associated Health Risks Due to Massive Road Construction Activities within Benue State by Gov. Hyacinth Alia
We are writing to draw your attention to critical environmental health concerns arising from the ongoing road construction activities in different parts of Benue State, particularly between Wurukun Roundabout and Air Forces Base.
Responsible ministries and agencies must urgently address these issues that adversely affect public health, sanitation, and environmental quality.The problem manifests as significant air pollution primarily from fine airborne particulate matter generated by dust from construction.
This pollution could lead to increased visits to clinics and hospitals for respiratory distress, particularly among asthmatic patients. Also, it could contribute to incidences of cancer, respiratory, and cardiovascular conditions among residents, workers, and passersby in the affected area. The cumulative and long-term health consequences of this sustained air pollution are a serious concern requiring immediate intervention.
Furthermore, the lack of comprehensive data collection and confirmatory diagnoses prevents effective health response and policy-making. Many patients receive only tentative or empirical treatment without identification of the underlying causes, and some resort to unregulated self-medication due to economic constraints. This situation results in the underreporting of morbidities and mortalities associated with environmental pollution, including the case under consideration.
It seems the agencies mandated for environmental protection, public health, sanitation, and hygiene have not noticed what is currently going on. Hence, they are not holding the construction company accountable, suggesting negligence on the part of the MDAs. This, therefore, has the potential to undermine public trust and exacerbate health risks.
We are therefore recommending the following to the concerned MDAs:
1. Conduct and enforce mandatory environmental impact assessments before and during construction projects within the state.
2. Establish robust health surveillance and data collection systems to monitor pollution-related health effects within the state.
3. Ensure strict compliance with environmental protection laws by construction companies, including dust control measures.
4. Provide public health support and compensation mechanisms for affected individuals.
5. Increase transparency and accountability within ministries and agencies responsible for environmental and public health management.
6. Prioritise initiatives that reduce illicit practices such as extortion during environmental sanitation activities.
7. Immediate action is essential to mitigate these environmental health risks, protect vulnerable populations, and restore public confidence in institutional responsibilities.
We are always available to advise when required.
Thank you.
Elder Gberindyer F. Aondover
Convener, Balanced Rights Advocates Nigeria (BRAN)
