Concerns have been raised by traders and residents of Kara, Ibafo, and Mowe Communities in Obafemi Owode Local Government Area of Ogun State.

They have expressed unease regarding the increasing presence of mentally ill individuals wandering throughout their neighborhoods.

According to reports obtained, these mentally ill individuals can often be found lurking in uncompleted buildings, abandoned houses, under bridges, stalls, and by the roadsides, causing distress among the local residents.

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During a visit to the affected communities, some individuals suspected to be suffering from mental illness were observed aimlessly wandering and loitering in the vicinity.

There is growing apprehension that the presence of these mentally ill individuals may create an opportunity for potential wrongdoers to cause harm within the community.

Traders in the area have been particularly vocal about their concerns.

Oluwatomisin, a trader, shared her experience, stating that the mentally ill individuals present on the streets and in the marketplace are a source of disturbance. Some of them have even resorted to harassing people who visit the market.

She recounted an incident where a mentally ill woman caused chaos by throwing stones and wood at people and disrupting the market’s peace.

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“If only we knew where to take them for proper care, we would have done so to prevent their disturbances. The government should make provisions for their welfare,” Oluwatomisin emphasized.

Modupe Abraham, another trader, highlighted the vulnerability of these mentally ill individuals, some of whom sleep on the highway, risking accidents. She called for authorities to relocate them and provide them with the necessary treatment.

Tosin, a market trader, acknowledged that the community has shown compassion to these mentally ill individuals, but she stressed that it’s insufficient.

She expressed, “We don’t view them as a disturbance because we understand their condition. People in the market are kind toward them. The mentally ill individuals wandering need sincere assistance.”

Despite attempts to contact the Permanent Secretary of the Ogun State Ministry of Humanitarian Affairs, Mrs. Ogunremi, there has been no response to texts and calls at the time of this report.