Akure Odour Sparks Health Concerns as Ondo Detects Volatile Compounds

The Ondo State Government has raised concerns over the persistent chemical odour reported in several parts of Akure, warning residents that prolonged exposure could pose potential health risks.

The government has therefore advised residents living in or visiting affected areas to take precautionary measures, including wearing nose masks and limiting the amount of time they spend in locations where the offensive smell is detected.

The Commissioner for Environment, Dr. Tob Loko, gave the warning while providing an update on the ongoing investigation into the source of the mysterious odour that has continued to cause concern among residents of the state capital.

Loko disclosed that preliminary tests carried out on air samples collected from some affected communities detected volatile organic compounds, commonly known as VOCs.

Speaking with Roving Reporters, the commissioner said samples were collected from areas including Ijapo Estate and Oba-Ile, where residents had reported experiencing the unusual smell.

He, however, explained that the government had not yet identified the specific chemical compound responsible for the odour, stressing that additional scientific investigations were required before a definite conclusion could be reached.

According to him, VOCs are a broad group of chemical compounds that include substances such as benzene, toluene and styrene.

He noted that identifying the exact compound involved would be critical to determining its source and assessing the potential risks associated with exposure.

To strengthen the investigation, Loko said five professors specialising in environmental chemistry had joined the team handling the matter.

The experts, he explained, had recommended the use of geomapping to help track the movement of the suspected gaseous compounds.

This, he said, was necessary because gases and airborne chemicals can be carried from one location to another depending on wind direction and speed.

The geomapping exercise is expected to enable investigators to monitor the movement of the compounds, identify areas with higher concentrations, collect more targeted samples and eventually establish their source.

Loko said the state government was taking the matter seriously and would continue to work with relevant experts and agencies until the source of the odour was established.

He urged residents to avoid prolonged exposure to areas where the smell was noticeable and to use face or nose masks as a precautionary measure.

The commissioner stressed that the government considered the detected compounds unsafe and would intensify efforts to determine their origin and find an appropriate solution.

The warning comes amid growing anxiety among residents who have complained about the unusual odour persisting for weeks.

Some residents have reportedly experienced discomfort, including headaches, throat irritation and breathing difficulties, after perceiving the smell.

While investigations are ongoing, the government has appealed to residents not to panic but to remain vigilant and follow safety advice issued by the authorities.

Loko also assured the public that the government would make the outcome of the investigation available to residents and would continue to provide updates through the media.

He added that the government was committed to concluding the investigation as quickly as possible and ensuring that appropriate measures were taken once the source and nature of the chemical compounds were established.

Join us on our WhatsApp Platform @KOIKIMEDIA NEWS YOUR PAGE

koikimedia Bringing the World 🌎 Closer to Your Doorstep