Sulphuric odour raises fresh environmental concerns in Ondo
By Julius Alabi, Akure
Residents in some parts of Ondo State have continued to grapple with a disturbing sulphur-like odour, raising fresh concerns about possible environmental pollution and the potential implications for public health and safety.
The development has heightened public attention to environmental safety in affected communities, particularly amid concerns over the possible health implications of prolonged exposure to unidentified chemical or sulphur-like odours.
Following a series of complaints from concerned residents across the state, the State Government has intensified efforts to identify the source of the offensive odour, with the Ministry of Environment engaging a team of environmental and analytical chemistry experts to conduct a scientific assessment of the situation.
The Commissioner for Environment, Hon. Tob Loko disclosed this in a statement stare that the team was received as part of the government’s ongoing efforts to address the reported odour concern and protect residents.
Loko said the intervention followed a directive from Governor Lucky Orimisan Aiyedatiwa that every necessary step be taken to unravel the cause of the situation and safeguard the health, safety and wellbeing of residents.
He said: “This is in line with the directive of His Excellency, the Executive Governor of Ondo State, Dr. Lucky Orimisan Aiyedatiwa, to ensure that every necessary step is taken to address the situation and safeguard the health, safety and wellbeing of residents.”
The expert team comprises Prof. Victoria O. E. Akpambang, an Analytical and Environmental Chemist and Chairperson of the Chemical Society of Nigeria, Ondo State Chapter; Prof. Ademola F. Aiyesanmi, an Environmental Chemist; Prof. Afamefuna E. Okoronkwo, an Inorganic and Environmental Chemist; Prof. Wasiu B. Tomori, an Environmental and Analytical Chemist; and Prof. Isiaka A. Amoo, a Food, Analytical and Environmental Chemist.
The composition of the team, according to the commissioner, reflects the government’s decision to approach the issue through scientific investigation rather than speculation, as authorities seek to establish the nature and possible source of the odour.
Loko said the engagement of the experts underscored the state government’s commitment to deploying scientific expertise in addressing the environmental concern.
He added that the team’s assessment would assist the ministry in understanding the situation and determining the appropriate steps required to protect communities that may be affected.
The commissioner also commended the experts for responding promptly to the government’s concerns and for their willingness to support the ministry in the ongoing assessment.
He appealed to residents to cooperate with the Ministry of Environment by reporting suspicious activities, illegal discharge or any other information that could assist investigators in tracing the source of the odour.
According to him, information from residents remains important to the government’s efforts to establish what may be responsible for the environmental disturbance.
The development has heightened public attention to environmental safety in affected communities, particularly amid concerns over the possible health implications of prolonged exposure to unidentified chemical or sulphur-like odours.
The commissioner, however, assured residents that the government remained focused on finding answers and taking necessary measures based on the outcome of the scientific assessment.
He said the health, safety and wellbeing of the people of Ondo State remained the government’s priority.
Loko therefore urged residents to remain vigilant and continue to channel relevant information to the ministry as the assessment progresses.
