A collapsed septic tank at Onireke-Ekotedo, Ibadan, has claimed the life of a child who reportedly inhaled fumes from the water-filled pit.
The incident occurred after the septic tank caved in and became filled with water, exposing residents around the property to potentially dangerous fumes.
Following the incident which occurred around Queen Cinema axis, the condition of the property was reported to the Oyo State Ministry of Environment and Natural Resources, which sent officials to inspect the area and assess the safety of the building and its occupants.
During the inspection on Saturday, the officials found that water had accumulated inside the collapsed septic tank and beneath the building’s foundation, prompting concerns about the stability of the property.
Consequently, the ministry sealed two houses and marked seven others with caution tape as part of measures to prevent further danger to residents in the area.
The Commissioner for Environment and Natural Resources, Ademola Aderinto, described the child’s death as unfortunate and preventable, saying the condition of the property posed a serious environmental and safety risk.
Aderinto said the accumulation of water beneath the building’s foundation could affect its structural stability and put more lives at risk.
He added that the government would take appropriate action against property owners found to have violated environmental and safety regulations.
The commissioner urged residents to promptly report hazardous environmental conditions to the appropriate authorities, stressing that early intervention could help prevent further loss of lives and property.