This research paper evaluated the current standing of Igbatoro dumpsite - the most active and largest state-managed dumpsite in Akure, Nigeria, its effects on the people and groundwater quality. In this study, questionnaires were administered to obtain responses from dwellers around the dumpsite. Some index property tests were conducted on the underlying soil of the dumpsite. Biological oxygen demand, chemical oxygen demand and total dissolved solids of leachate were determined. Physical, chemical and microbiological analyses were conducted on three samples collected from three wells adjoining the dumpsite. It was found that the underlying soils are predominantly silty-sand and cannot prevent leachate migration. The water samples are contaminated with microbes. The views of dwellers within the dumpsite vicinity are that the dumpsite is of great concern to them and that the management of the dumpsite is poor. The results indicated the need for clear departure from unsafe open dumping to engineered landfill. © 2020 Inderscience Enterprises Ltd.