The long-standing tradition of burying individuals who drown near riverbanks has sparked intense debates and prompted criticism from medical experts, who warn that this practice can have adverse effects on public health and the environment.

While it is a common cultural practice in many communities to bury those who die in water near the riverside, experts caution that this tradition poses hidden risks.

Recent controversies arose following the deaths of several individuals, including popular Nollywood actor Junior Pope, in a boating accident on the River Niger. Reports suggested that the community where the incident occurred insisted on burying the victims along the riverbank due to traditional beliefs.

However, Wakadaily learnt that physicians highlight the potential dangers of burying bodies near bodies of water, including contamination of water sources leading to the spread of diseases such as cholera and typhoid.

They also point out the risks of soil erosion, pollution, and disturbance of aquatic ecosystems when bodies are buried near rivers.

Professor Tanimola Akande, a Consultant Public Health Physician at the University of Ilorin Teaching Hospital, emphasized the hazards of burying bodies near rivers, particularly due to the high water levels near riverbanks.

He elaborated that decomposing bodies can lead to water contamination through the release of germs into the soil and water. He also mentioned the importance of following specific burial protocols for such cases in order to avoid environmental risks.

“The procedures vary from country to country and even based on cultural and religious practices. However, bodies must be buried at least 100 feet from rivers or water sources.

“One of the conditions is to ensure minimum distance from rivers and also bear in mind the water level table in that area. Also, the use of suitable caskets that are not biodegradable should be important. Local environmental authorities can be consulted to give further advice.

“Environmentally friendly and safe methods of burial vary depending on location, like the topography, the culture of the people, and guidelines in the location.

“It is important to consider not burying close to water sources and places with high water table levels. Burying around areas susceptible to erosion should be avoided.” he added.

The doctor pointed out instances where water sources were contaminated due to burials near them and improper excavation methods in mass burials.

“Decomposition of the bodies can contaminate the soil and water, particularly where there are burials during epidemics. During the COVID-19 epidemic, environmental health officials ensured safe body burials,” he stated.

A warning was issued by Dr. Seun Oguntade, an environmentalist from the Ogun State Health Ministry, regarding the tradition of burying bodies near rivers. Despite cultural beliefs, he cautioned against this practice.

“Burying bodies beside rivers can contaminate the water with harmful bacteria and pathogens, leading to an increased risk of waterborne diseases and environmental degradation.

“While it is important to respect cultural traditions and beliefs, it can’t come at the expense of public health and environmental safety. There are alternative ways to honour the deceased that don’t involve risking the health of the living or damaging water sources,” he said.

He suggested that it is safer to bury deceased individuals who are located near rivers in cemeteries or other authorized burial sites.

This ensures that necessary precautions can be taken to avoid contamination and the spread of diseases. Oguntade also emphasized the historical instances where outbreaks of waterborne diseases were connected to inadequate sanitation practices and improper disposal of human waste.

He said, “Throughout history, we have seen how improper waste management has led to devastating epidemics and environmental disasters. Burying bodies beside rivers increases the risk of contamination with pathogens, leading to serious health consequences for both humans and wildlife.

“The dangers of burying a body near a river can’t be overstated. Not only does it pose a significant health risk to nearby communities, but it can also lead to the degradation of the river ecosystem.

“To minimize the risks, all bodies should be buried at a distance of at least 100 meters from a riverbank. This provides an appropriate buffer zone to prevent contamination and ensure the safety of both the living and the environment.”

The doctor highlighted the need to educate communities about the dangers of river burials and to offer alternative burial solutions that respect cultural beliefs while also being environmentally friendly.

“We must work together to raise awareness about the dangers of river burials and provide viable alternatives that respect both cultural traditions and the safety of our communities,” he mentioned.