AKURE — The Ondo State Government has provided an update on investigations into the offensive odour being perceived in parts of Akure metropolis, ruling out the Ala River as the source, contrary to earlier speculation.
According to a press statement issued by the Ondo State Ministry of Environment and signed by Henry Johnson Olagundoye, a team of professionals was constituted by the ministry, on the directive of the Commissioner for Environment, Dr. Tob Loko, to work alongside environmental consultants in investigating the possible source and nature of the odour.
Preliminary findings from the investigation indicate that the odour is not linked to the Ala River course as earlier speculated, but is instead a case of air pollution arising from the release of certain organic compounds into the atmosphere.
The state government said efforts are ongoing to conclusively identify the specific compound(s) responsible, their characteristics, and their source. In the meantime, residents in affected areas have been advised to limit their exposure to the odour and make use of nose masks as a precautionary measure.
The government urged residents across the state to remain calm and continue with their normal daily activities, while encouraging them to promptly report any suspicious activities, illegal waste disposal, unusual emissions or other environmental violations to the Ministry of Environment for appropriate action.
Members of the public can lodge reports and complaints through the following telephone numbers: 08030730479, 08033738102, and 08066144651.
The Ondo State Government reaffirmed its commitment to protecting the environment and safeguarding the health, safety and wellbeing of residents, and appealed for public cooperation as investigations continue, assuring that all necessary measures are being taken to address the situation.
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