The Oyo State Government has dismissed social media reports claiming that crude oil was discovered in a well at Yemetu, Ibadan.
In a press release signed by Commissioner of Information Prince Dotun Oyelade, the government said investigations by the Ministry of Environment and Natural Resources revealed that the substance found in the well was diesel, not crude oil.
Officials launched a three-day probe following a petition on September 8, 2025, concerning suspected water pollution at a local residence.
Findings showed that the well, which had served residents for nearly 20 years without contamination, had been polluted with diesel, and about 250 litres of the substance were recovered by security operatives.
The ministry added that an inspection of a nearby telephone mast found no evidence linking it to the contamination.
The government said it provided 5,000 litres of potable water to the affected household through the Oyo State Water Corporation, while the contaminated water was evacuated for proper treatment by accredited waste contractors, and the well was left to undergo natural remediation.
Eyewitnesses reported that the pollution occurred within six hours, raising suspicions of foul play.
The ministry also urged security agencies to intensify investigations and directed the owners of the nearby high mast to provide a borehole for the community as part of their corporate social responsibility.
The state government reassured the public of its commitment to protecting lives, public health, and the environment, and cautioned residents against spreading unverified reports that could incite panic or unrest.