The Senate on Thursday raised serious concerns over a rapidly escalating lead-poisoning crisis in Ogijo, a densely populated community on the border between Ikorodu in Lagos and Ogun East Senatorial District
Lawmakers described the situation as a severe environmental and public-health emergency putting thousands of lives at risk.
The motion, jointly sponsored by Senators Mukhail Adetokunbo Abiru (Lagos East) and Gbenga Daniel (Ogun East), was presented under Matters of Urgent Public Importance, citing Orders 41 and 51 of the Senate Standing Orders, 2023 (as amended).
Senators highlighted verified scientific reports indicating extreme lead contamination from multiple used lead-acid battery recycling factories that have operated in the area for years. Residents have reportedly suffered persistent headaches, abdominal pain, memory loss, seizures, and developmental delays in children—symptoms consistent with chronic lead exposure.
The chamber noted that the Federal Government has already begun intervention. The Minister of State for Labour and Employment, Nkeiruka Onyejeocha, has shut down seven battery-recycling factories and temporarily halted lead-ingot exports pending safety investigations.
Lawmakers expressed alarm that, despite years of community complaints, the factories continued operating, releasing toxic fumes and dust into homes, markets, and playgrounds. “It is regrettable that despite years of community outcry, smelter furnaces continued operating, discharging toxic fumes directly into surrounding neighbourhoods. While some factory operators deny wrongdoing, community exposure remains extreme,” the Senate said.
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