The Ogun State Environmental Protection Agency (OGEPA) has sealed Arolat Petrol Station, situated along Ayetoro Roundabout Road in Abeokuta, over allegations of underground water contamination.
The action follows a petition from Foursquare Gospel Church, located beside the fuel station, raising concerns about the pollution of its only water source.
The Special Adviser to the Governor on OGEPA, Hon. Farouk Akintunde, confirmed the development, stating that the agency received a complaint from the church about suspected contamination of its well water with Premium Motor Spirit (PMS).
“The petition indicated that the well, which serves as the church’s primary source of water, has been polluted with PMS. This raised serious environmental and health concerns, prompting our swift intervention,” Akintunde said.
According to him, OGEPA’s enforcement team proceeded to seal the petrol station to facilitate a comprehensive investigation.
He explained that the probe would focus on identifying contaminated areas, assessing the extent of pollution, and determining the current status of underground water in the vicinity.
“As a responsive and responsible agency, the safety and well-being of our people are paramount and must not be compromised for any reason,” Akintunde emphasized.
The agency assured the public that necessary steps would be taken to address the situation and prevent potential hazards arising from the contamination.