The National Environmental Standards and Regulations Enforcement Agency has commenced an investigation into a suspected chemical spill on the Kaduna-Abuja Expressway after a white, foamy substance was discovered at the scene of a heavy-duty truck accident.
The agency disclosed this in a statement issued on Tuesday by its Assistant Director of Press, Nwamaka Ejiofor.
According to NESREA, a team from its Kaduna State Field Office, led by the State Coordinator, Hena Dangari Emmanuel, visited the affected location to assess the situation and gather information necessary to determine the nature and possible environmental impact of the substance.
During the visit, the team met with the Police Commander for Jere, ACP Sani Zubairu; the Federal Road Safety Corps commander responsible for the area; the community leader; and other relevant officials and residents.
Preliminary findings indicated that a heavy-duty truck was involved in an accident and spilled its contents at the location, leading to the appearance of the unidentified foamy substance.
“A heavy-duty truck was involved in an accident, leading to the spillage of its contents at the location,” the agency said.
NESREA disclosed that samples of the foam, surrounding soil and water from a nearby stream had been collected and sent for laboratory analysis.
The agency said the tests would establish the composition of the substance, determine whether it poses any danger to human health or the environment and guide the appropriate regulatory and remedial action.
Pending the conclusion of the investigation, NESREA warned residents, motorists and other members of the public against touching the foamy substance or coming into contact with the surrounding soil and water.
“Members of the public are strongly advised to avoid contact with the foamy substance, the water and the surrounding soil until the investigation is concluded, to prevent possible exposure to hazardous materials,” the statement said.
The agency assured the public that the outcome of the laboratory analysis would determine the next course of action, including any measures necessary to contain the spill, protect nearby communities and restore the affected environment.