The Ogun State Government has suspended the operations of three companies in the Igun community, Ijebu North-East Local Government Area, over environmental pollution and lead poisoning.
Commissioner for Environment, Ola Oresanya, announced the suspension on Friday after inspecting the affected areas. He said the firms, involved in battery recycling, failed to comply with environmental safety standards, putting residents’ health at serious risk.
According to him, the companies ignored earlier warnings and continued operations that exposed the community to toxic lead emissions. Tests conducted in the area confirmed unsafe lead levels in the soil and environment, prompting swift action from the government.
“We had no choice but to shut them down,” Oresanya said. “Their activities endangered lives, especially children, and violated both state and national environmental laws.”
He added that the government acted in collaboration with the Federal Ministries of Environment and Solid Minerals, the National Environmental Standards and Regulations Enforcement Agency (NESREA), and international health organisations. The goal, he said, is to clean up the contaminated areas and prevent further exposure.
The commissioner assured residents that the government would begin a proper remediation process. He urged other companies in the state to operate within safe environmental limits or face similar sanctions.
Oresanya also warned that Ogun State would not tolerate any firm placing profits above public health. He encouraged community members to report harmful industrial activities promptly.
The suspension remains in effect until the companies meet all safety and environmental requirements.
