LAGOS GOVT CLARIFIES LEAD POLLUTION CONCERN IN OGIJO, SAYS FACILITY OUTSIDE STATE JURISDICTION
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By: Sefiu Ajape
An environmental concern raised by a social media user regarding lead poisoning in Ogijo has prompted an official response from the Lagos State Government.
On X, user @Bello_AO questioned: “What are you doing about the Lead poisoning in Ogijo? Why is the factory still operating with concern for human health? Improper battery recycling, poor PPE, and many more hazardous chemicals are released into the environment.”
In response, Mr. Tokunbo Wahab, Honourable Commissioner for the Environment and Water Resources, Lagos State, clarified that Ogijo is not within Lagos State but a town in Sagamu Local Government Area of Ogun State, approximately 8–12 kilometres from Ikorodu.
“While we appreciate your concern, it is important for us to get the information correctly. Ogijo, where the company is situated, falls entirely outside the territorial jurisdiction of Lagos State,” Wahab said.
He further explained that the Lagos State Environmental Protection Agency (LASEPA) had proactively prevented similar hazardous operations from being established within Lagos State.
Detailed environmental impact assessments and inspections carried out several years ago led to the rejection of proposals for informal used lead-acid battery (ULAB) recycling and other high-risk operations in Lagos.
“Because of LASEPA’s firm and uncompromising enforcement, the operators relocated their activities to Ogijo in neighbouring Ogun State,” Wahab added.
He emphasized that Lagos remains protected under stringent environmental standards enforced by the state, including regular monitoring, sealing of non-compliant facilities, and prosecution of offenders.
“Under the leadership of His Excellency Jide Sanwo-Olu, Lagos State has maintained some of the strictest environmental standards in Nigeria. We will continue to protect Lagos with science, courage, and unwavering commitment,” Wahab concluded.
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