Residents of Akinbo community in Ewekoro Local Council of Ogun State have raised an alarm over the alleged pollution of their primary water source by a company operating in the area. In a petition to the state government, the residents urged authorities to compel the company to cease actions that could worsen environmental pollution and to ensure the cleanup and rehabilitation of the affected environment.
Traditional Ruler Calls for Urgent Intervention
The Olu of Akinbo, Oba Rasheed Olamilekan Balogun, in a letter dated May 26, 2026, addressed to the Commissioner for Environment, Ola Oresanya, called for urgent government intervention to avert what he described as a potential public health and environmental crisis. Balogun alleged that the company has been persistently discharging waste materials, chemical effluents, and other hazardous pollutants into the environment, negatively affecting residents' domestic and economic activities.
Impact on Livelihoods and Ecosystem
According to the monarch, residents rely heavily on the water source for drinking, cooking, farming, and fishing. However, the alleged pollution has rendered the water unsafe for human consumption and household use. The contamination has also led to the death of fish and other aquatic life in the affected water body, raising concerns about the long-term sustainability of the local ecosystem. Additionally, domestic animals dependent on the water source have reportedly been affected, worsening the hardship faced by residents whose livelihoods depend on the natural resource.
Balogun warned that the situation could trigger outbreaks of waterborne diseases and other health complications if urgent corrective measures are not taken. He noted that women, children, and the elderly are among the worst affected, as they now bear the burden of sourcing alternative water supplies for the community.
Demands for Investigation and Sanctions
The traditional ruler called on the Ministry of Environment to conduct an environmental inspection and investigation into the activities of the company. He demanded detailed laboratory analyses and scientific evaluations of the affected water source to determine the level of contamination and assess potential public health risks. Balogun urged the government to compel the company to immediately stop activities contributing to environmental pollution and to ensure prompt remediation and restoration of the affected area. He further called for appropriate sanctions and regulatory measures if investigations establish that the company violated environmental laws.
