Michael Babatunde
The Ogun State Government has ordered the temporary closure of seven lead-acid battery recycling factories in Ogijo, Sagamu Local Government Area and imposed a temporary ban on the exportation of lead ingot from the state.
The emergency measures followed a PLATFORM TIMES investigative report exposing widespread lead contamination in Ogijo, which drew attention to the health and environmental risks associated with the local recycling industry.
Leading the government’s inspection team, Commissioner for Environment, Ola Oresanya, confirmed that the shutdown is part of immediate containment efforts while comprehensive assessments are conducted.
The team included experts from the Ministries of Environment and Health, the Ogun State Environmental Protection Agency (OGEPA), and the National Environmental Standards and Regulation Enforcement Agency (NESREA).
“One of the companies, African Non-Ferrous Industrial Limited (ANFIELD), has already been sealed by OGEPA and NESREA as part of our emergency action,” Oresanya stated.
“We understand the fears of residents and want to reassure the public that the government is taking the situation seriously. Health and environmental tests will be conducted, and the findings will be made public.”
Oresanya further disclosed that the state would embark on a thorough Health and Process Audit to determine the levels of lead exposure in humans, soil, air, and water within the industrial community.
He also noted that the government would independently review the lead contamination testing methods referenced in media reports to ensure transparency and accountability.
The Ogijo community has long raised concerns over hazardous fumes and dust emitted from recycling plants, which have been linked to environmental degradation and various health complications.
The state government said the temporary export ban would remain in effect until investigations are completed and safety and operational standards are fully enforced.
Residents have welcomed the government’s action, expressing hope that it would curb the environmental and health hazards that have plagued the area for years.
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