Plane crash: Ondo to begin fumigation of Igbokoda River as Aiyedatiwa directs water tankers to supply affected communities
By Julius Alabi, Akure
The Ondo State Government has ordered the fumigation of the Igbokoda River and the distribution of health kits to residents following complaints about a strong stench emanating from the waterway where a Nigerian Air Force aircraft crashed last week.
The state government said the measures were aimed at protecting residents of Igbokoda and neighbouring communities from potential health hazards arising from suspected pollution of the river, which serves as a major source of livelihood for the people.
Governor Lucky Orimisan Aiyedatiwa, according to a statement issued yesterday by the Commissioner for Information and Orientation, Idowu Ajanaku, directed the Ministries of Environment and Health to commence extensive fumigation of the river.
The directive followed complaints by residents about the offensive odour from the river in the aftermath of the crash, raising concerns over the safety of the water and the possible risk of disease outbreaks.
The governor also directed the Ilaje Local Government Council to arrange water tankers for the continuous supply of potable water to residents if assessments establish that the river is severely polluted and unsuitable for use.
The alternative water supply arrangement, the government said, would remain in place pending a lasting intervention to address the pollution and safeguard public health.
Beyond the fumigation exercise and provision of alternative water, Aiyedatiwa directed the Ministries of Health and Environment to distribute nose masks and other essential health kits to residents as precautionary measures against potential environmental and health risks.
The reported stench has heightened concerns among residents about the possible environmental consequences of the aircraft crash, particularly the potential impact on water quality and the health of people who depend on the river.
However, the government’s proposed measures include assessing the suitability of the river for use and providing alternative sources of potable water where necessary, pending a more permanent solution to the pollution concerns.
The state government also reiterated its commitment to supporting the Nigerian Air Force in its ongoing evacuation operations at the crash site.
It assured residents that their welfare and safety remained a priority, pledging to provide the necessary assistance to the affected community as efforts to address the aftermath of the incident continue.
