By Peter.
Abeokuta, December 1, 2025 – The Ogun State Government has swung into action following viral reports of lead contamination in Ogijo, Sagamu LGA, announcing:
- Free blood-lead testing for ALL residents starting Monday, December 2, 2025
- A fully equipped Lead Testing Centre already operational at Ogijo Primary Health Centre
- Permanent closure threat for any of the **seven recently sealed Used Lead Acid Battery (ULAB) recycling factories that fail a new Process & Environmental Audit
Health Commissioner Dr Tomi Coker declared:
“The well-being of Ogijo residents is non-negotiable. We will never trade their health for industrial gains.”
Environment Commissioner Ola Oresanya issued a stern warning to factory owners and community leaders:
“Any company that fails the audit will remain shut until 100% compliance. This is not the time to beg for polluters — it is time to choose health over money.”
He also banned future industrial siting in residential zones, directing new factories to approved industrial clusters only.
Community Leaders Back Government Move
Representing the Ologijo of Ogijo, Chief Sunday Lawal, and local CDAs thanked Governor Dapo Abiodun for the swift response:
“Shutting the seven ULAB plants and offering free tests is a timely lifesaver. We will mobilise every household to get tested.”
Background
The crisis erupted after a viral video exposed dangerous lead emissions from informal battery recycling plants, triggering:
- Immediate shutdown of seven ULAB factories
- Temporary halt on lead ingot exports from Ogun
- Deployment of NESREA and Ogun EPA teams for soil, water, and air sampling
Residents experiencing symptoms (fatigue, stomach pain, learning difficulties in children, etc.) are urged to visit the Ogijo PHC immediately.
Ogun State is sending a clear message: No factory is above the lives of its people.
#OgijoLeadCrisis #OgunState #FreeLeadTesting #EnvironmentalJustice #ProtectOurChildren
