In the Northern Nigerian city of Kano, a local waste‑collector has faced criminal penalties for storing bags of human faeces outside his house, a practice that made neighbours unable to leave their own homes due to overpowering odours.
Mohammed Saidu, aged 42, was brought to court after residents reported the foul smell to environmental officials. Magistrate Halima Wali ordered a 14‑day jail term and a fine of 100,000 naira (about £55), describing the behaviour as “highly inconsiderate” and a danger to public health.
Saidu’s job involved emptying sceptic tanks, and he claimed he had been selling the faeces to local farmers for use as fertiliser. While such practice is not uncommon in the region, it is rarely publicly acknowledged.
Local chief Musa Abdullahi said he had first spoken to Saidu when the complaint was first brought to him. The chief had managed to persuade him to remove the bags for a short period, but when the practice resumed, neighbours turned to authorities.
During the hearing, Wali personally inspected the premises, seeing the multitude of bags. She ordered Saidu to clear all the waste from the premises and promised that the offence would not be repeated.
Former residents now say that life has improved considerably since the case was brought to court. The neighborhood is described as “enjoyable again without any bad smell.”
The local chief added that his own home was far enough away that he had not been affected by the smell, yet he understood the frustration of his neighbours and pledged to keep the community peaceful.">
