Residents of the Yakoyo community in the Ojodu Abiodun area of Ifo Local Government, Ogun State, are calling on the state government to relocate a nearby dump site that they claim poses serious health and security threats.
During a recent visit, the media found that the dump has become a hideout for criminals, who use the area to peddle drugs. The accumulation of waste has also blocked part of the community’s drainage system, leading to flooding during the rainy season.
Jide Olaniran, a local resident, expressed concerns about the foul odor emanating from the site, which he fears could lead to health issues. He noted that some individuals have taken refuge at the dump, engaging in illegal activities. “When it starts smelling, the odour will be everywhere and this is not good for our health,” he said.
Olaniran added that despite multiple appeals to the Ifo Local Government leadership to relocate the dump, their requests have gone unanswered. “We want to urge the state government to come to our aid before the situation deteriorates,” he stated.
Chief Olatunde Onipede, another resident, echoed these concerns, highlighting that the dump has become an eyesore and has been exacerbated by illegal dumping activities. “There is a church beside the dumpsite that is mostly affected, and the houses nearby become flooded during the rainy season because the drainage has been blocked,” he said.
Ogun State Commissioner for Environment, Ola Oresanya, acknowledged the issue of illegal dumps in various areas, confirming that the ministry is working to close them down as part of the state’s waste management system. “We will close down the illegal dump,” Oresanya assured, indicating a commitment to address the community’s concerns.
The residents hope that the state government will take swift action to resolve the situation and alleviate the health and security risks posed by the dump site.
