The Oyo State Government has debunked reports circulating on social media that crude oil was discovered in a well at Yemetu, Ibadan.
In a statement on Wednesday, the Ministry of Environment and Natural Resources clarified that investigations revealed the substance found was diesel, not crude oil.
Officials launched a three-day probe after receiving a petition on September 8, 2025, over suspected water pollution at a house in Yemetu Igosun.
“Findings showed that a well, which had served residents for nearly 20 years without contamination, was suddenly polluted with diesel that completely covered the water surface. About 250 litres of the substance were later recovered by security operatives,” the ministry said.
Investigators also inspected a telephone mast located less than three metres from the affected well, but confirmed there was no evidence linking the facility to the contamination.
File Photo: Government Officials at Yemetu to investigate alleged crude oil discovery
Naija News reports that submissions from the community earlier indicated that the pollution occurred within six hours, raising suspicions of foul play in the community, which has a history of unrest.
To cushion the impact on residents, the Oyo State Water Corporation delivered 5,000 litres of potable water to affected households.
The contaminated water was evacuated for treatment and disposal by accredited waste contractors, while the well undergoes natural remediation.
The Ministry also directed the mast owners to provide a borehole for the community as part of their corporate social responsibility, while security agencies intensify investigations.
Reassuring residents, the government pledged continued commitment to public health and environmental protection.
It also warned against spreading unverified or sensational information capable of triggering panic or social unrest.
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