Ogun Seals Warehouse Over Toxic Emissions Following Social Media Outcry
The Ogun State Government has shut down the Ideal Warehouse in Asese, Obafemi Owode Local Government Area, citing severe air pollution and environmental violations. The action followed a public outcry sparked by a social media exposé.
Hon. Kehinde Bello, General Manager of the State Environmental Protection Agency (OGEPA), confirmed the enforcement exercise to journalists. He revealed that the agency acted after a blogger’s video went viral, alleging that emissions from the warehouse were compromising air quality and endangering the health of nearby residents.
“The issue gained urgent attention from the online community, which prompted our immediate intervention,” Bello stated.
OGEPA officials conducted an on-site environmental assessment and found the facility in breach of environmental safety and air quality standards. Consequently, the warehouse was sealed pending further investigation and necessary corrective actions.
Bello reiterated the agency’s commitment to strict enforcement of environmental laws across the state, warning that any industry operating without proper safeguards would face sanctions. He also encouraged residents to report environmental hazards through official channels to ensure a prompt response.
Residents of Aroshuku in Asese have welcomed the government’s intervention, calling it a vital step for public health. Some community members, however, urged sustained monitoring to prevent a recurrence.
In a related development, OGEPA also sealed Sanhe Nigeria Limited, a plastic recycling company along the Lagos-Ibadan Expressway, for discharging untreated wastewater into the environment.
