The Jigawa Hisbah Board has urged residents of the state to ensure that graveyards in their communities are properly sanitary and maintained.
The charge was given in an interview on Saturday in Dutse, the state capital, by Ibrahim Dahiru, the state’s Hisbah Commander.
To illustrate the story, a file photo was used.
Nigerian Guardian
Graveyards, according to Dahiru, are supposed to be a clean and sacred environment free of any kind of dirt, and they must be properly secured and fenced to prevent trespass and encroachment.
The commander bemoaned the deplorable state of some graveyards, particularly in rural areas, due to lack of sanitation.
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“It is concerning that we are not paying sufficient attention to the cemetery’s maintenance through regular sanitation to keep them tidy and clean,” he said.
“Some of the graveyards have become overgrown with weeds, which is why people only bury the dead during the day to avoid dangerous reptiles.”
“There is a time when cattle graze in one of the cemeteries, and some of the graves may be destroyed.”
“At the very least, residents should ensure that their respective graveyards are weeded three times a year.”
Dahiru also advocated for public awareness-raising activities to educate people about proper cemetery management.
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The commander emphasized the importance of community and religious leaders, as well as the government, educating the public about the importance of cemetery sanitation.
While urging wealthy individuals to help provide perimeter fencing for graveyards in their communities, Dahiru also urged the state and local governments to enlist volunteers to guard the graveyards against encroachment.