Table of Contents
- Shutdown of Recycling Plants
- Suspension of Lead Ingot Exportation
- Health and Process Audit
- Government Transparency
- Review of Previous Assessments
- Accompanying Officials
The Ogun State Government has closed seven used lead-acid battery recycling facilities and has ordered a temporary halt to lead ingot exports as part of urgent measures to investigate reported cases of lead poisoning in Ogijo, located in the Sagamu Local Government Area.
The Commissioner for Environment, Ola Oresanya, announced this decision during a visit to the community following a viral video that raised concerns about potential hazardous contamination.
According to the commissioner, the government will not overlook any threat to public health.
He elaborated that the suspension of lead ingot exports is intended to facilitate a comprehensive review of industrial operations.
The commissioner also mentioned that a detailed health and process audit would commence immediately.
This audit will include testing for lead levels in local residents, as well as in the soil, air, and major water sources in and around Ogijo.
Oresanya reassured residents that the government would maintain transparency throughout the process.
“The results of all tests will be made public,” he stated.
He indicated that the state will also reassess previous environmental evaluations that have already been circulated in the media.
Oresanya was joined by officials from the Ministries of Environment and Health, the Ogun State Environmental Protection Agency (OGEPA), and the National Environmental Standards and Regulations Enforcement Agency (NESREA).
Frequently Asked Questions
Why were the recycling plants shut down?
The recycling plants were shut down to investigate allegations of lead poisoning in the community and to ensure public health safety.
What is the government doing about lead ingot exports?
The government has temporarily suspended lead ingot exports to allow for a thorough review of industrial activities in the region.
How will the health audit be conducted?
The health audit will involve testing for lead levels in residents, soil, air, and major water sources in and around Ogijo.
Will the results of the tests be made public?
Yes, the government has assured that all test results will be made public.
Eze Chidiebere Paul
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