The Ekiti State Government has launched investigations into complaints of offensive odour reported in parts of Ado-Ekiti, urging residents to remain calm and avoid spreading unverified information.
The State Commissioner for Information, Taiwo Olatunbosun, said the government was working to identify the source of the odour and address any environmental or public health concerns arising from it.
In a statement made available in Ado-Ekiti on Sunday, August 16, Olatunbosun said “the state government has continued coordinated investigations, inspections and surveillance across locations where reports of an obnoxious odour have been received, as part of efforts to address any environmental nuisance associated with the situation.”
He said investigations began after residents raised concerns, with relevant institutions and experts brought into the process to assess the situation, exchange information and determine practical ways of tracing the source.
The commissioner said initial surveillance and inspections had identified several activities that could contribute to foul odours and environmental pollution.
“The surveillance and inspection exercises have so far identified activities capable of contributing to environmental nuisance and foul odours, including indiscriminate sewage disposal, poor waste management practices and the discharge of decomposed materials into public channels.
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“Appropriate enforcement measures have been taken against identified offenders, including prosecution, sealing of affected premises, clearing of environmental nuisances and fumigation of affected areas, in order to curtail activities capable of generating or worsening the odour.”
Olatunbosun added that the Ministry of Environment and Natural Resources had carried out air and gas analysis to provide scientific information that could help determine the nature and possible source of the odour.
He assured residents that the matter remained under close observation.
“The situation is being closely monitored. The state government is working with relevant agencies and experts to ensure that the matter is properly investigated and appropriate measures taken to normalize the situation.”
The commissioner appealed to residents not to speculate or circulate information that had not been verified, warning that such actions could create unnecessary fear and worsen tensions.
He also urged anyone with useful information about the reported odour to contact the relevant authorities, particularly the state Ministry of Environment and Natural Resources, through 08145571085.
Olatunbosun reiterated the Biodun Oyebanji-led administration’s commitment to environmental protection and to providing residents with a clean, safe and healthy environment.