By Quazeem Halimot Bukola
Ondo State Governor, Lucky Aiyedatiwa, has directed the state Ministries of Environment and Health to commence extensive fumigation of the Igbokoda River following complaints by residents about a strong stench emanating from the waterway where a Nigerian Air Force (NAF) aircraft crashed last week.
The directive is aimed at preventing a possible outbreak of diseases and safeguarding the health of residents of Igbokoda and neighbouring communities, many of whom depend on the river for their livelihoods.
The governor also directed the Ilaje Local Government Council to make arrangements for the continuous distribution of potable water to residents through water tankers if assessments reveal that the river has been severely polluted and is no longer safe for use.
According to a statement signed by the Commissioner for Information and Orientation, Idowu Ajanaku, the water supply arrangement will remain in place pending a lasting solution to the pollution concerns.
In addition, Aiyedatiwa instructed the Ministries of Environment and Health to provide residents with nose masks and other essential health kits to minimise their exposure to potential health hazards arising from the situation.
The measures followed complaints from residents over the unpleasant odour from the river, raising concerns about possible environmental contamination and its implications for public health.
The state government said it remained committed to providing the necessary support to the Nigerian Air Force in its ongoing evacuation efforts while prioritising the safety and welfare of residents in the affected community.
The government’s intervention is expected to address immediate public health concerns and ensure access to safe drinking water for residents should the river be deemed unsuitable for use.
