Ogun shuts seven lead-acid battery firms in Ogijo over alleged poisoning

Ogun state government has shut down seven used lead-acid battery recycling industries in the Ogijo community, Sagamu local government area, amid concerns over alleged lead poisoning.

The government also called for an immediate temporary suspension of lead ingot exportation from the state as part of urgent steps to address the issues.

On Wednesday, an investigative report showed residents who tested positive for lead poisoning live within 100 to 500 metres of True Metals Nigeria Limited and Everest Metal Nigeria Ltd, two of the most prominent used lead-acid battery (ULAB) recyclers in Ogijo.

Ola Oresanya, Ogun state commissioner for environment, spoke during an inspection tour in Ogijo following a viral video alleging hazardous contamination in the area.

Oresanya said a comprehensive health and process audit will be conducted on the affected facilities, including testing for lead levels in humans, soil, air, and major water sources within and around the industrial town.

He further said the results of the tests will be made public, while reviewing methodologies and outcomes of previous assessments cited in media reports.

The commissioner was accompanied by 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).