Ondo govt rules out river as source of Akure offensive odour

By Boye Oyeyemi

The Ondo State Government has ruled out the Ala River as the source of the offensive odour reported in parts of Akure, the state capital, saying preliminary investigations point to air pollution.

The government disclosed this in a statement signed by Henry Johnson Olagundoye of the Ondo State Ministry of Environment on Wednesday, following an investigation ordered by the Commissioner for Environment, Dr. Tob Loko.

According to Olagundoye, the ministry had earlier assembled environmental professionals and consultants to investigate the source and nature of the odour after receiving complaints from residents in affected parts of the metropolis.

The statement also disclosed that preliminary findings showed that the Ala River was not the source of the offensive odour, contrary to earlier speculation.

Instead, the ministry said the odour appeared to have resulted from the release of certain organic compounds into the atmosphere, while efforts were ongoing to identify the specific compounds, their characteristics and source.

Meanwhile, the ministry advised residents in affected areas to limit their exposure to the odour and use nose masks while investigations continue.

The government also urged residents to remain calm and report suspected cases of illegal waste disposal, unusual emissions and other environmental violations through 08030730479, 08033738102 or 08066144651.

It assured residents that necessary measures were being taken to address the situation and protect public health and safety, while urging them to cooperate with the ongoing investigation.