The Ogun State Government has shut down two industries; Quantum Steel Industry in Ogijo, Sagamu Local Government, and Xinfeng Plastics Limited along the Lagos-Ibadan Expressway following industrial accidents that resulted in fatalities.
The Special Adviser to the Governor on the Ogun State Environmental Protection Agency (OGEPA) and Chairman of the State Taskforce on Environmental Compliance and Enforcement, Alhaji Farouk Akintunde, stated that the government’s decision to close the companies was to allow for thorough investigations into the causes of the incidents and to implement measures that will prevent future occurrences.
“As a government, we are committed to conducting credible and diligent investigations, including engaging external safety experts, to uncover the root causes of these incidents in the interest of public safety,” Akintunde stated.
He expressed concern over the fact that despite repeated visits by state officials to educate industries on strict adherence to safety regulations, fatal accidents still occurred. He emphasized that the closure of the companies was necessary to ensure compliance and accountability.
“What is even more painful is that despite the state government’s continuous sensitization efforts, these incidents still happened within their production lines. We had no choice but to shut them down,” he added.
Akintunde further warned that the companies would remain closed until investigations were completed and new safety measures were put in place. He also cautioned other industries in the state to prioritize worker safety, warning that the government would not only shut down erring companies but also blacklist them if necessary.
In a related development, the Ogun State Government has also shut down two other companies for violations of environmental and safety regulations. Wemco Nigeria Limited, located in Magboro along the Lagos-Ibadan Expressway, was closed for obstructing state officials from carrying out an investigation into an erosion dispute between the company and the surrounding community.
Similarly, Beautiful Fibre, situated in Ogere along the Lagos-Ibadan Expressway, was shut down for exposing its workers to hazardous chemicals without providing them with Personal Protective Equipment (PPE), despite repeated warnings from state authorities.
The government has mandated that both companies remain closed until they fully comply with safety and environmental directives. This decisive action underscores the state’s commitment to protecting workers and ensuring compliance with industrial safety standards.
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