A suspected petroleum leak has caused panic in the Yemetu area of Ibadan after residents discovered a liquid substance, believed to be Automotive Gas Oil (AGO), commonly known as diesel, trapped inside a local well.

According to a statement issued on X by the Oyo State Police Command, the alert was received at about 6:50 p.m. on September 6, prompting immediate action by officers from the Yemetu Police Division.

Led by the Divisional Police Officer, a Chief Superintendent of Police, the team moved swiftly to the Omikunle area where the discovery was reported. On arrival, officers confirmed the presence of the liquid suspected to be diesel in the well and observed a crowd of residents with containers, apparently intending to scoop the substance.

Recognising the potential danger, the police cordoned off the area with the support of armed personnel and members of the local neighbourhood watch.

The Oyo State Ministry of Environment has since been notified and is working with the police to safely manage and dispose of the substance. Preliminary findings suggest a possible leakage from an underground storage tank in the vicinity, contaminating the water source.

Police officials assured the public that the situation is under control and poses no immediate threat to residents. An investigation is underway to determine the source of the leak and assess possible environmental or health risks.

“The Oyo State Police Command is fully committed to protecting the community,” the statement read. “We encourage everyone to remain vigilant and report any suspicious activity to the nearest police station. Residents are advised to avoid contact with the substance and refrain from attempting to extract it from the well due to possible health and fire safety risks.”