Precious Anga
Lagos — Residents of Akinbo community in Ewekoro Local Government Area of Ogun State have called on the state government to intervene over the alleged contamination of their primary water source by an industrial operator, warning that the situation poses serious environmental and public health concerns.
The appeal was contained in a petition submitted to the Ogun State Ministry of Environment by the Olu of Akinbo, Oba Rasheed Olamilekan Balogun, who urged authorities to investigate the alleged pollution and take steps to safeguard the wellbeing of residents.
According to the monarch, the community’s major water source, which supports domestic activities, farming and fishing, has allegedly been affected by the discharge of waste materials and chemical effluents, making it unsafe for household use.
Balogun said residents have expressed growing concerns over the condition of the water body, noting that many families depend on it for drinking, cooking and other daily activities. He added that the situation has also raised fears about the long-term sustainability of local economic activities tied to the environment.
The traditional ruler further alleged that aquatic life in the affected area has been impacted, with reports of declining fish populations and damage to the surrounding ecosystem. He said livestock owners have also reported challenges linked to the condition of the water source.
He warned that continued contamination could increase the risk of waterborne diseases and place additional pressure on vulnerable groups, particularly women, children and elderly residents who now struggle to access alternative sources of clean water.
Balogun urged the Ministry of Environment to conduct a comprehensive environmental assessment, including laboratory testing and scientific evaluation of the affected water body, to determine the extent of any contamination and potential health implications.
He also called for immediate remediation measures where necessary, stressing the importance of enforcing environmental standards and ensuring that industrial activities do not compromise the health, livelihoods and environmental sustainability of host communities.
