….Community alleges contamination of major water source, death of fish and animals
….Residents urge Ministry of Environment to investigate and enforce environmental laws
By Peter Taiwo
The Olu of Akinbo, Oba Rasheed Olamilekan Balogun, has petitioned the Ogun State Ministry of Environment over alleged environmental pollution and contamination of the community’s major water source by Burning PIE Ltd, calling for urgent government intervention to avert a looming public health and environmental crisis.
In a petition dated May 26, 2026, and addressed to the Honourable Commissioner for Environment, the monarch expressed concern over what he described as the continuous discharge of waste substances, chemical residues, and harmful pollutants into the environment by the company operating within Akinbo Township in Ewekoro Local Government Area of Ogun State.
According to the petition, residents of the community have observed over time that the activities of the company have allegedly polluted the primary water source relied upon by the people for drinking, cooking, domestic use, farming, fishing, and other daily economic activities.
Oba Balogun stated that the contamination has rendered the water unsafe for human consumption and other domestic purposes, thereby exposing residents to significant health and environmental risks.
The traditional ruler further alleged that the pollution has resulted in the death of fish and other aquatic organisms in and around the affected water body, raising concerns about the sustainability of the local ecosystem.
He noted that several domestic animals that depend on the water source have also reportedly been affected, worsening the plight of residents whose livelihoods are closely linked to the natural resource.
The petition described the once dependable water source as having become a source of danger, with many residents now struggling to access clean and potable water for their daily needs.
Oba Balogun warned that the situation could trigger outbreaks of waterborne diseases and other health complications if urgent remedial measures are not taken by relevant authorities.
The monarch said women, children, and elderly persons in the community have been particularly affected by the challenges arising from the alleged contamination, as they bear the burden of sourcing alternative water supplies.
He argued that the alleged actions and negligence of the company amount to environmental degradation and pose a serious threat to public health, aquatic life, and the constitutional right of citizens to a safe and healthy environment.
Consequently, the community has appealed to the Ministry of Environment to conduct an immediate environmental inspection and investigation into the operations of Burning PIE Ltd within the area.
The petition also requested comprehensive laboratory testing and scientific assessment of the affected water source to determine the extent of contamination and possible risks to human health.
In addition, the community urged the government to direct the company to immediately halt any activity capable of causing further environmental pollution while ensuring the remediation and restoration of the affected environment.
The residents further called on the ministry to assess the extent of damage allegedly caused to aquatic life, domestic animals, and the economic activities of residents whose livelihoods depend on the water source.
They also urged the government to impose appropriate sanctions and regulatory measures should investigations establish violations of environmental laws by the company.
The community expressed confidence in the Ministry’s commitment to environmental protection and public safety, while appealing for swift intervention to safeguard the health, wellbeing, and future of Akinbo Township residents.
