Kwara govt reacts as oil spillage poses ‘health risk’ in Ifelagba community
The Kwara State Government, in reaction to the safety concern over the oil spillage in Ifelagba community in Sobi, Alagbado of the Ilorin East Local Government Area has assured residents of the community that swift and decisive action will be taken regarding their complaints about oil spillage discovered in four wells and one borehole in the area.
During an urgent inspection of the community on Wednesday, the Commissioner for Business, Innovation and Technology, Hon. Damilola Yusuf Adelodun, alongside the Commissioner for Environment, Hajia Nafisat Buge, assured the residents of the safety.
Hon. Damilola emphasized that the state government will conduct comprehensive geological and environmental assessments to confirm the presence and extent of the spillage and assess its implications for public health, safety, and future exploration.
The Commissioner also highlighted the importance of community collaboration and pledged to work with relevant federal agencies for technical assessments and discussions on effective management and development of the area.
Similarly, Hajia Nafisat Buge, represented by Head of Department for Pollution Control, Alabelewe Saadudeen, promised to investigate the cause of the oil spillage affecting the community.
Community Chairman, Alhaji Ajadi AbdulAzeez, expressed gratitude for the prompt response from the state government, noting the serious water contamination and scarcity due to the oil presence in major wells and boreholes. He highlighted concerns raised by the distinct appearance and odor of petroleum found during recent water retrieval efforts.
The Magaji of Ifelagba, Alhaji Mohammed Amori Ajape, also commended the timely intervention of the state government under Governor Mallam AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq, urging for immediate support to provide clean and potable water.
In response, Area Manager of Rainoil Ltd., Mr. AbdulHakeem Adeyeye, stated that the company had conducted multiple tests and surveys to determine the source and scope of the problem.
The delegation included several officials from the relevant ministries, emphasizing the government’s commitment to resolving the issue and ensuring community safety.
