‎By Rosemary Ogbonna
‎ National Environmental Standards and Regulations Enforcement Agency (NESREA) has launched an investigation into a suspected chemical spill following a truck accident on the Kaduna–Abuja Expressway.
‎The agency said the accident left behind a white, foamy substance at the scene, prompting immediate response from environmental authorities.
‎This was disclosed in a statement on Wednesday by NESREA’s Assistant Director of Press, Mrs Nwamaka Ejiofor.
‎According to the statement, a team from NESREA’s Kaduna State Field Office, led by State Coordinator, Mr Hena Emmanuel, visited the site to commence investigations.
‎The team met with the Jere Police Commander, Assistant Commissioner of Police Sani Zubairu, the Federal Road Safety Corps (FRSC), Commander in the area, and the community leader.
‎Preliminary findings indicate that a heavy-duty truck was involved in the accident, resulting in the spillage of its contents. NESREA said it gathered information from security agencies, relevant officials and residents to support the investigation.
‎The agency also 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 its potential environmental impact.
‎NESREA advised members of the public to avoid contact with the foamy substance, nearby water sources and the surrounding soil until the investigation is concluded.
‎“The precautionary measure is necessary to prevent possible exposure to hazardous materials,” the agency said.