The Ogun State Government has shut seven used lead-acid battery recycling plants and ordered a temporary suspension of lead ingot exportation as part of urgent steps to investigate alleged lead poisoning in Ogijo, Sagamu Local Government Area.
The Commissioner for Environment, Ola Oresanya, announced the decision during an inspection visit to the community after a viral video raised fears of hazardous contamination.
According to the commissioner, the government would not ignore any threat to public health.
He explained that the suspension of lead ingot exportation is to allow for a thorough review of industrial activities.
The commissioner added that a detailed health and process audit would begin immediately.
This includes testing for lead levels in residents, as well as in soil, air, and major water sources within and around Ogijo.
Oresanya assured residents that the government would be transparent throughout the process.
“The results of all tests will be made public,” he said.
He noted that the state will also review previous environmental assessments already circulating in the media.
Oresanya was accompanied 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).