The cost of Bauchi public toilets has had a sudden surge, even as sanitation expenses in the state have announced a 100% increase in usage charges.
The Bauchi Local Government Area’s Association of Public Toilets disclosed the fee hike, and the association’s Chairman, Mr. Ibrahim Kabo confirmed the decision during an interview in Bauchi on Thursday.
The sudden hike in charges for utilizing these essential amenities reflects the economic challenges facing both the operators and the region at large.
“Charges for defecation in the facilities increased to N200 from the initial N100, while taking baths with hot and cold water rose to N200 as against the earlier N100,” said Kabo.
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According to him, the upward review was necessitated by a sharp increase in the prices of items used in maintaining the facilities.
“We use soap, detergent, antibacterial agents, petrol, deodorant, cream buckets, brooms, dustbins, and toilet paper among others to make the toilets convenient for the public.
“On the other hand, we have increased workers’ transportation fares; their role is very important because they are in charge of maintenance and taking care of the facilities.
“These are what led to the price increase in the public toilets in the metropolis,” the chairman said.
He said that as advocates of ending open defecation, members of the association must increase the charges to be able to pay their utility bills and remain in business.
“That is why we work with the Water Sanitation and Hygiene (WASH) unit of the local government area and the Bauchi State Environmental Protection Agency (BASEPA),” Kabo said.
Reacting, a client, Aliyu Danjuma, said the upward review was unfortunate but understandable.
“I don’t blame them on the increase; everything has gone up, so you don’t expect less than what they are charging,” he said.
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