In a proactive initiative to combat environmental pollution, a coalition of traditionalists, spearheaded by the Ose Meji Foundation and in partnership with the Oyo State Ministry of Environment, launched a clean-up campaign at the polluted Osuntoki River in the Olorunkemi community, Oluyole Local Government Area.
The clean-up campaign was organized in response to a viral video that featured devotees performing traditional rites over an infant in the contaminated river, which sparked widespread criticism from both the traditional and secular communities. During a press briefing over the weekend, Ayinke Ifatoromade-Otaoti Adefemi, founder of the Isese Renaissance Society, expressed the urgency of the campaign. “We are here to raise awareness about water pollution and environmental sanitation issues,” she stated.
The traditionalists discovered, through their investigations, that the Olorunkemi community faced significant waste disposal challenges, particularly concerning the river’s degradation. Adefemi expressed gratitude to the government for their support in facilitating the clean-up project, emphasizing that “our belief in preserving nature is an integral part of Isese, and we welcome collaborations aimed at grassroots environmental efforts.”
Basit Akorede, Deputy Director of Environmental Health Services at the Ministry of Environment, revealed the importance of adhering to environmental laws. He noted that illegal dumping and refuse burning could lead to a two-month imprisonment or a hefty fine of N50,000. He encouraged residents to engage authorized refuse contractors to prevent disease outbreaks.
The clean-up event also served as a platform for educating the community on effective solid waste management practices. Among the attendees were the Otun baale of Olorunkemi community, Oloye R Oloso, and various representatives from traditional organizations.
