Officials of the Ministry of Environment and Natural Resources in Ekiti have shut down an illegal water factory along Omisanjana area of the state capital.
Nigerian Tribune gathered that a team of environmental health officers, inspected the water factory, identified as A1 Pure Water in Ado-Ekiti, at the weekend and uncovered several violations of regulations.
The leader of the team, Samuel Adebayo said that the factory had been operating without the necessary permits and licenses, rendering its operations illegal and unlawful.
He added that the team discovered the source of water used for the production of the sachet water was identified as water from an abandoned water well from a location across the road.
The practice, according to him raised serious health concerns, adding that the utilization of well water, especially without proper treatment and regulation, can lead to the contamination of drinking water, exposing consumers to various health risks.
Adebayo, “The operation of this water factory poses a direct threat to the health and safety of the residents of Ekiti. We must take immediate action to prevent any further harm to public health.
“The water factory was found to violate several standards and requirements set for sachet water production, further exacerbating the risk to public health.”
The Commissioner for Environment and Natural Resources, Tosin Aluko-Ajisafe expressed her concern over the situation, stating, “The illegal operation of A1 Pure Water represents a clear disregard for public health and safety regulations. We will not tolerate such actions that put the lives of our citizens at risk.”
She explained that the closure of the water factory serves as a stern warning to other businesses operating within the state to adhere strictly to environmental regulations and standards.
The commissioner who disclosed that the suspect arrested in connection with the factory has been handed over to the police for necessary prosecution, reiterated that the ministry would be committed to safeguarding the environment and promoting public health across the state.
