The Ogun State Environmental Protection Agency (OGEPA) has taken decisive action by sealing Arolat Petrol Station, located along Ayetoro Roundabout Road in Abeokuta, following allegations of underground water pollution. The move comes as part of an ongoing investigation into the contamination of a nearby well, which serves as the primary water source for the Foursquare Gospel Church situated adjacent to the petrol station.
Hon. Farouk Akintunde, Special Adviser to the Governor on OGEPA, revealed that the agency received a formal petition from the church, reporting that their well water had been contaminated with Premium Motor Spirit (PMS), commonly known as petrol. The contamination has raised serious concerns about the safety and health of the community relying on the water source.
In response, OGEPA’s enforcement team swiftly sealed the petrol station to facilitate a thorough investigation. The probe will focus on identifying the contaminated areas, assessing the extent of the pollution, and determining the current status of the underground water in the vicinity.
Hon. Akintunde emphasized the agency’s commitment to public safety, stating, “As a responsive and responsible agency, the safety and well-being of our people are paramount and must not be compromised for any reason.” He assured that OGEPA would take all necessary steps to address the issue and ensure accountability.
The sealing of the petrol station will remain in effect until the investigation is concluded and appropriate measures are implemented to prevent further environmental damage. The incident has sparked concerns among residents, who are calling for stricter enforcement of environmental regulations to safeguard water resources in the state.
