Diesel Found in Ibadan Well, Police Speak on Next Action as Heavy Security is Deployed

• A suspected diesel leak has been discovered in a well in the Omikunle area of Yemetu, Ibadan, prompting swift action from local authorities
• The Oyo State Police Command has confirmed the presence of automotive gas oil and has secured the site to prevent contamination and theft
• Preliminary findings have suggested that the contamination of the well may have originated from a nearby underground storage tank leak

Authorities in Oyo State have launched an investigation following the discovery of a liquid substance suspected to be automotive gas oil (AGO), commonly known as diesel, trapped in a well in the Omikunle area of Yemetu, Ibadan.

The Oyo State Police Command issued a public alert on September 7, 2025, via its official X account, warning residents of the potential hazard.

The statement confirmed that the incident was first reported to the Yemetu Division on the evening of September 6, 2025, at approximately 6:50 PM.

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According to the police, a team led by the Divisional Police Officer, a Chief Superintendent of Police, was dispatched to the scene immediately after receiving the tip-off.

Upon arrival, officers identified a lubricant believed to be diesel within the well.

The statement noted that several residents had gathered nearby with containers, apparently intending to collect the substance.

Police secure area around diesel-contaminated well

In response to the discovery, the area was cordoned off by armed personnel from the Yemetu Division, supported by members of the local neighbourhood watch.

The Oyo State Ministry of Environment was also called in to assist with the safe handling and disposal of the potentially hazardous material.

The police statement read:

“Preliminary investigations indicate a potential leakage from a nearby Underground Storage Tank, which may have caused the well to fill with this liquid.”

Community cautioned by police amid diesel leak

As of the time of reporting, the situation in the affected area remained calm.

The Oyo State Police Command assured the public that investigations were ongoing and reiterated its commitment to community safety.

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The statement concluded with a call for public cooperation:

“We encourage everyone to stay alert and report any suspicious activities to the police. Thank you for your cooperation!”

The incident has sparked concerns over environmental safety and the integrity of underground fuel storage systems in residential areas.

Authorities have yet to confirm the source of the leak, but have pledged to provide updates as more information becomes available.

The video of the police statement on the diesel leak is below:

Expert lists safety steps for residents

Following the diesel contamination incident in Ibadan, Health, Safety, and Environment (HSE) professional Ayodeji Hakeem Mukhtar has urged tighter preventive measures and stronger community response.

“Prevention requires a mix of regulatory enforcement, infrastructure integrity, and community preparedness,” Mukhtar told Legit.ng.

The HSE professional explained that “fuel pipelines and distribution channels should undergo routine integrity testing, monitoring, and maintenance to quickly detect leaks or weaknesses.”

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According to him, spotting leaks early with new technology and enforcing the law more firmly would allow faster action.

“Beyond infrastructure, public sensitization is critical. Communities should know how to recognise and report unusual odors, water discoloration, or suspected spills.”

For now, while checks are still ongoing, Mukhtar urged that:

“Residents should avoid using contaminated water sources for drinking, cooking, or bathing until government and health agencies declare them safe. Where possible, they should switch to alternative sources such as packaged water or emergency supplies arranged by authorities.”

"Residents living close to contaminated sites should minimize prolonged outdoor exposure to reduce risks of inhaling harmful vapors."

"Additionally, anyone experiencing symptoms such as nausea, dizziness, skin irritation, or breathing difficulties should seek medical attention promptly and inform health workers of possible exposure. Authorities should, in turn, ensure clear, consistent communication with residents to avoid misinformation and panic while reinforcing safety measures."

Investors discover $34 billion in Nigerian resources

Legit.ng earlier reported that Nigeria is drawing demand from around the world for its vast natural resources, including an expanse of lithium, which is estimated to be worth over $34 billion.

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The element is a vital component of batteries for renewable energy storage systems and electric vehicles (EVs), with the country setting itself up to be a significant force in the world's market.

Nigeria's lithium reserves are attracting increasing attention as nations and businesses around the world compete to obtain the mineral, which is crucial for sustaining the green energy revolution.

Editorial assistant Ololade Olatimehin provided exclusive commentary from an HSE professional for this report.

Proofreading by Bruce Douglas, copy editor at Legit.ng.

Source: Legit.ng