Ogun State Government has ordered the immediate temporary suspension of lead ingot exportation from the state as part of urgent measures to address growing concerns over alleged lead poisoning in Ogijo, Sagamu Local Government Area.
Battery Recycling Plants
Commissioner for Environment, Ola Oresanya, announced the decision during an inspection tour of the community following a viral video alleging hazardous contamination in the area.
Oresanya, who visited with experts from the Ministries of Environment and Health, the Ogun State Environmental Protection Agency (OGEPA), and the National Environmental Standards and Regulations Enforcement Agency (NESREA), confirmed that seven industries involved in used lead-acid battery recycling in Ogijo have been shut down. He said the shutdown was necessary to prevent further exposure while investigations continue.
Reassuring residents of the government’s commitment to safeguarding public health, the commissioner explained that a comprehensive health and process audit would be carried out on all affected facilities.
The assessment will include testing for lead levels in humans, soil, air and major water sources within and surrounding the industrial town.
He added that the government will also review the methodology and conclusions of previous assessments referenced in media reports to ensure accuracy and transparency.
Oresanya said the results of the tests will be made public once completed, emphasising that the administration remains focused on protecting residents and preventing environmental hazards linked to industrial operations in the area.
