By v3edge
A Professor of Clinical and Molecular Biochemistry at Fountain University, Osogbo, Osun State, Nusrah Afolabi-Balogun, has dismissed concerns over the safety of water from the Osun-Osogbo Sacred Grove, affirming that it is suitable for human use.
The professor also revealed that microorganisms found within the Osun grove possess the ability to produce medicinal compounds with anti-cancer properties, highlighting the site’s significant biomedical potential.
The Osun River, which flows through the sacred grove, serves as the focal point of the annual Osun-Osogbo Cultural Festival, an internationally recognised event that attracts devotees of the Osun goddess, cultural enthusiasts, and traditional worshippers from around the world. During the festival, many adherents collect water from the river for spiritual and domestic purposes.
However, concerns had earlier been raised about the river’s safety. In August 2023, a non-governmental organisation, Urban Alert, alleged that activities of illegal gold miners had polluted sections of the Osun River. The group claimed laboratory tests revealed the presence of hazardous substances such as mercury, lead, cyanide, and other toxic elements, warning that the water could pose health risks.
Speaking while delivering the 7th Inaugural Lecture of Fountain University, titled “From Laboratory Bench to Global Impact: Harnessing Biotechnology for Human Benefit,” Afolabi-Balogun countered those claims, stating that scientific evidence supports the safety of the river water.
According to her, extensive research conducted at the Osun-Osogbo grove showed that certain naturally occurring organisms in the ecosystem are capable of purifying and decontaminating the water, making it harmless to the human body.
“My research went beyond traditional beliefs. I was able to scientifically characterise organisms in the grove that naturally cleanse the water. This proves the water is not dangerous,” she said.
She further explained that some of the microorganisms identified during her study produce bioactive compounds effective against cancer, underscoring the grove’s importance to biotechnology and medical research.
The professor also called for stronger support for scientific research in Africa, stressing the need for policies that promote biosafety, bioethics, and data sovereignty. She urged governments to invest more in research funding, infrastructure, and platforms that translate African scientific discoveries into global solutions.
“Africa’s biotechnology future must be intentional. Innovation must be backed by integrity, ethical standards, and sustained funding to ensure research benefits humanity and community wellbeing,” she added.a
