Oyo Community Fights Open Defecation: ‘We Fine Households Without Toilets,’ Says Baale of Alaagba

The Alaagba community in Ona-Ara Local Government area, is a 350-year-old settlement made up of seven smaller communities: Moyo, Idisango, Aba Oro, Kuye, Idi Ogun, Amosun Agbele, and Eleni. At the moment, it is taking bold steps to eradicate open defecation and promote healthy living.

At the center of this effort is Baale Muili Abidemi, the traditional head of Alaagba, who has made cleanliness and sanitation a matter of communal pride and penalty.

“We fine households without toilets,” he told newsmen, his tone firm but hopeful. “Open defecation is problematic — both health-wise and economically. Alaagba is now a model for other communities still practicing it.”

The Baale, whose community boasts over 6,000 residents, said the transformation did not happen overnight. About a decade ago, open defecation was rampant, and the environment suffered from recurring outbreaks of sanitation-related diseases. “Eight or ten years ago, before adopting proper water and sanitation methods, the environment was overwhelmed with filth and disease,” he recalled.

Today, Alaagba stands as an example of how grassroots leadership can drive public health change. Working closely with community members, UNICEF and sanitation officers, Baale Abidemi has championed the WASH initiative; Water, Sanitation, and Hygiene — ensuring that boreholes provide treated, potable water across designated points in the area.

Yet, he admits challenges remain. “Some adjoining villages still lack boreholes and health centers,” he said, calling for government intervention and support from development partners.

The community’s approach to enforcement is firm but structured. Households found without a functional toilet are first fined N1,500. Repeat offenders face steeper penalties and public admonition until compliance is achieved.

“We started this to make people take responsibility,” the Baale said. “Everyone must play their part in keeping Alaagba clean.”

Today, several houses, schools, and market areas in Alaagba are toilet-fitted, and efforts are underway to ensure that all primary schools in the community follow suit.

Meanwhile, for residents like Mrs. Iyabode Olasupo, who proudly showed off her family’s new toilet facility, the transformation has brought dignity and comfort. “We thank UNICEF, sanitation officers, and stakeholders for supporting us,” she said. “Life is better when your environment is clean.”

Alaagba’s success has begun to inspire neighboring communities within Ona-Ara council area, as leaders and residents witness firsthand the health and economic benefits of proper sanitation.

From once being a village plagued by open defecation to becoming a model of cleanliness and community action, Alaagba’s story is proof that when tradition meets public health, progress takes root — one household toilet at a time.