Spitting in public: A menace on the rise

                                           Google Image

The act of spitting is common place all over the world. At one point or the other, people feel the urge to eject saliva or other substances from their mouth. But while this act is discreetly done by cultured individuals, others throw caution to the winds, spitting carelessly in public.

In Nigeria, especially in Lagos, spitting in public has become a worrisome trend. The streets of Lagos is today not only filled with garbage but also messed up with spit which can be visibly seen on the road, sidewalks, pedestrian bridge etc.

Ikeja which is one of the commercial nerve of Lagos state ranks high in this disgusting act. Hardly can you walk through Allen Avenue, Toyin Street, Adeniyi Jones, Alausa to mention a few without seeing human saliva in open space.

The rate at which Lagosians spit with reckless abandon leaves much to be desired. Many may not know that diseases such as tuberculosis, flu virus,bacteria etc.can be contracted through this disgusting, repulsive, unhygienic, and anti-social behaviour.

I foresee a time when people will start altering their stride to avoid stepping in other peoples spit.

Lagos at this point in time may have to emulate countries like China and Singapore who imposed heavy fine on individuals who spit in public.

Health conditions may necessitate that people eject saliva from their mouth but doing so in public is not the way to go. This is what tissues and hankies are meant for.

The Lagos State Government is presently doing all it can to get rid of garbage on the highways, streets and slum, but spitting in public is another menace that demands urgent attention before it gets out of hand.