NAF aircraft crash: Ondo govt orders river fumigation, distribution of health kits

Ondo State Government has directed the Ministries of Environment and Health to commence extensive fumigation of the river in Igbokoda, Ilaje Local Government Area, following complaints by residents over a strong stench emanating from the site of the Nigerian Air Force aircraft crash.

The government also ordered the distribution of nose masks and other essential health kits to residents to protect them against potential health hazards arising from the incident.

The directives were issued by Governor Lucky Aiyedatiwa in response to concerns about the possible environmental and public health implications of the crash, which occurred last week.

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The river serves as a major source of livelihood for residents of Igbokoda and neighbouring communities, making concerns about possible pollution particularly significant for people who depend on it for their daily activities.

In a statement issued on Wednesday by the Commissioner for Information and Orientation, Idowu Ajanaku, the governor said the fumigation exercise was aimed at preventing a possible outbreak of diseases in the affected community.

Aiyedatiwa also directed the Ilaje Local Government to make arrangements for the continuous distribution of potable water to residents through water tankers if investigations establish that the river is severely polluted and unsuitable for use.

According to the statement, the water supply arrangement will remain in place pending a lasting intervention to address any confirmed pollution.

The government further directed the Ministries of Health and Environment to provide nose masks and other essential health kits to residents as part of measures to minimise their exposure to potential health risks.

Residents had raised concerns over the foul odour emanating from the river following the crash, calling for urgent intervention to address possible environmental contamination and protect public health.

The development has heightened concerns in the riverine community, where residents rely heavily on the waterway for their livelihoods and other daily activities.

The governor reiterated the state government’s commitment to providing the necessary support to the Nigerian Air Force in its ongoing evacuation efforts at the crash site.

He also assured residents of the government’s commitment to safeguarding their welfare and ensuring their safety amid the ongoing recovery operation.

The government did not state whether tests had confirmed contamination of the river or when the fumigation exercise would begin.