The Plateau Environmental Protection and Sanitation Agency (PEPSA) has condemned the alleged obstruction, threats and intimidation of its personnel during a sanitation exercise at the Chobe/Yankaji area of Jos, Plateau State.
The Agency said the exercise, conducted on Thursday, September 24, 2026, was part of its routine responsibility to ensure that public spaces, markets and areas where food and essential commodities are handled meet acceptable sanitation and environmental health standards.
According to a statement signed by Izang D. Pate, Director of Administration, for the Director General of PEPSA, the exercise was carried out alongside market leaders as part of efforts to engage stakeholders and promote compliance with sanitation requirements.
PEPSA said the Yankaji area, which is an important location for the preparation and sale of meat to residents, has continued to raise sanitation and environmental health concerns.
The Agency stated that despite repeated attention to the need for proper sanitation, operators of the market had not adequately cleaned their premises.
It alleged that when its personnel arrived to conduct the sanitation exercise, market operators prevented them from carrying out their duties, with the situation escalating into threats and intimidation.
PEPSA said security personnel eventually intervened and safely evacuated the agency’s officials and market union leaders from the premises.
The Agency further disclosed that one person sustained an injury during the evacuation and is currently receiving medical treatment in a hospital.
PEPSA described the incident as concerning, stressing that government officials carrying out lawful duties should not be subjected to threats, intimidation or physical obstruction.
The Agency acknowledged that sanitation enforcement could sometimes lead to disagreements with individuals and businesses, but said such disputes should be resolved through dialogue and established legal channels rather than threats or mob action.
PEPSA appealed to traders, market leaders, residents and other stakeholders to remain calm and avoid actions that could further escalate the situation.
It also appreciated the security personnel who responded to the incident and assisted in the safe evacuation of its staff.
The Agency reaffirmed its commitment to carrying out its statutory responsibilities across Plateau State, stressing that the protection of public health and the environment would remain a priority.
PEPSA urged market operators and members of the public to cooperate with government officials and support efforts aimed at promoting cleaner, safer and healthier communities.
