By Abdullahi Lukman
The National Environmental Standards and Regulations Enforcement Agency (NESREA) has commenced an investigation into a suspected chemical spill along the Kaduna-Abuja Expressway following the appearance of a white, foamy substance at the site.
The agency disclosed this in a statement issued on Tuesday by its Assistant Director (Press), Nwamaka Ejiofor, noting that a team from its Kaduna State Field Office, led by the State Coordinator, Mr. Hena Dangari Emmanuel, had visited the affected area to assess the situation and commence investigations.
During the visit, the team met with the Police Area Commander for Jere, ACP Sani Zubairu, the Federal Road Safety Corps (FRSC) commander for the area, and the community leader to gather information on the incident.
According to preliminary findings, the suspected contamination occurred after a heavy-duty truck was involved in an accident, resulting in the spillage of its contents onto the roadway.
NESREA said it had collected samples of the foamy substance, surrounding soil, and water from a nearby stream for laboratory analysis to determine the nature of the material and assess any potential environmental or public health risks.
The agency urged members of the public to avoid contact with the foamy substance, nearby water sources, and surrounding soil until investigations are concluded and laboratory results confirm the safety of the area.
NESREA said further updates would be provided as the investigation progresses.
