The Ondo State Government has initiated an emergency environmental and public health response in Igbokoda in response to growing complaints from locals about a strong stench coming from the river where a Nigerian Air Force ATR-42 aircraft crashed last week
In order to stop a potential disease epidemic in the coastal town, Governor Lucky Aiyedatiwa has instructed the Ministries of Environment and Health to start a thorough fumigation of the river.
Idowu Ajanaku, the Commissioner for Information and Orientation, revealed the decision in a statement in response to mounting worries that the collision might have contaminated the river. threatening the health and livelihoods of thousands of residents who depend on the waterway.
Igbokoda, the headquarters of Ilaje Local Council Area, is a riverine community where fishing and water-based economic activities are the mainstay of the locals.
The river serves as a major source of livelihood for residents and neighbouring communities, making any pollution a serious threat to public health.
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As part of the preventive measures, the governor has directed the Ilaje Local Government to arrange water tankers for the continuous distribution of potable water to residents if the river is found to be severely polluted and unsuitable for use.
The water tanker arrangement is to remain in place pending a lasting intervention to address the pollution.
The Ministries of Health and Environment were also directed to provide nose masks and other essential health kits to residents to protect them from potential health hazards associated with the stench and possible contamination.
“The directive is aimed at preventing a possible outbreak of diseases, as the river serves as a major source of livelihood for residents of Igbokoda and neighbouring communities,” Ajanaku said.
Governor Aiyedatiwa reiterated the state government’s commitment to providing all necessary support to the Nigerian Air Force in its ongoing evacuation efforts, as well as ensuring the welfare and safety of residents of the affected community.
The crash, which occurred last week, had earlier drawn emergency responders to the area, but the lingering environmental impact has now triggered fresh concerns among residents who fear the waterway may no longer be safe for use.
