Ondo Govt Uncovers Source of Offensive Odour Affecting  Alagbaka Extension

The Ondo State Ministry of Environment has uncovered the source of the offensive odour affecting Crest 106.1 FM and parts of the Alagbaka Extension in Akure, following credible intelligence received by the Ministry and a series of complaints from the management, staff and customers of the broadcast station.

The Ministry swung into action following a formal complaint from the management of Crest FM, which stated that the persistent offensive odour had escalated to the point of significantly disrupting the station’s daily operations and causing considerable discomfort to staff, guests and visitors.

Acting on the complaints and credible intelligence received, the Hon. Commissioner for Environment, Dr. Tob Loko, alongside the Permanent Secretary of the Ministry, Engr. Akin Omotola, Esq., FNSE, FNICE, today led a team of Ministry officials on an inspection visit to the affected areas to identify the source of the offensive odour and determine the appropriate regulatory response.

During the inspection, the team moved from the premises of Crest FM through Rev. Remi Olu Adegboyegun Avenue and MBC Akinbileje Avenue in Alagbaka G.R.A. Extension. The inspection led the Ministry to a neighbouring compound where a poultry and goat farming operation is being carried out.

The Ministry discovered that waste and other discharges generated from the farming activities were being channelled through a pipe laid into the drainage system and discharged towards other residential areas.

The Ministry established that the discharge from the pipe was the source of the offensive odour affecting Crest FM and the surrounding areas. The discharge was found to be travelling through the drainage system, thereby spreading the offensive odour to adjoining residential and business premises.

Following the findings, Dr. Loko described the situation as a serious environmental and public health concern and directed that an Abatement Notice be served on the owner of the facility responsible for the identified discharge, in accordance with relevant environmental laws and regulations.

The Commissioner stressed that environmental regulations apply to all individuals, businesses and facilities, irrespective of their size or location. He warned that activities capable of generating offensive odour, polluting the environment or exposing residents to environmental and public health risks would not be treated with levity.