The Ondo State Government has ordered the fumigation of the river at Igbokoda, headquarters of Ilaje Local Government Area, following complaints by residents about a strong stench from the waterway where a Nigerian Air Force aircraft crashed last week.
The Commissioner for Information and Orientation, Idowu Ajanaku, disclosed this in a statement issued on Wednesday, saying Governor Lucky Aiyedatiwa had directed the state Ministries of Environment and Health to begin extensive fumigation of the river to prevent a possible outbreak of diseases.
Ajanaku said the intervention became necessary because the river serves as a major source of livelihood for residents of Igbokoda and neighbouring communities, raising concerns about the potential health implications of the reported pollution.
He quoted the governor as directing the Ilaje Local Government to arrange water tankers to supply potable water to residents if the river was found to be severely polluted and unsafe for domestic use.
“The arrangement is to remain in place pending a lasting intervention to address the pollution,” the statement said.
The governor also ordered the Ministries of Health and Environment to distribute nose masks and other essential health kits to residents to minimise their exposure to possible health hazards.
Aiyedatiwa, according to the statement, reiterated his administration’s commitment to supporting the Nigerian Air Force in its ongoing evacuation efforts following the crash.
The governor also assured residents of the affected community of the state government’s commitment to protecting their welfare and safety amid concerns over the condition of the river.
