The Federal Government has ordered the immediate closure of African Refractory and Allied Products Company (ARAP), located at Km 46, Ikorodu–Sagamu Expressway, Ogijo, Ogun State, following reports of hazardous working conditions that allegedly exposed workers to silica dust and other health risks.
The directive was issued by the Minister of State for Labour and Employment, Mrs. Nkeiruka Onyejeocha, after an inspection carried out by the Occupational Safety and Health Department of the Federal Ministry of Labour and Employment at the facility.
The development was disclosed in a statement issued by the Ministry’s Head of Press and Public Relations, Mrs. Annah Daniel.
According to the ministry, the decision followed a series of reports indicating unsafe working conditions at the factory, particularly concerns about workers’ exposure to silica dust and the potential health implications.
Speaking on the development, Mrs. Onyejeocha ordered the immediate shutdown of the facility pending a comprehensive investigation into the company’s operations and its compliance with occupational safety standards. She noted that the action was taken to safeguard workers and prevent further health risks.
The ministry also disclosed that it had received reports relating to workers’ paternity, which are currently under review as part of the ongoing investigation.
Preliminary findings from the inspection further revealed regulatory concerns, including issues surrounding the renewal of the company’s operating licence, as well as discrepancies between its declared operations and its current production activities.
The ministry explained that the issues fall within the provisions of the Factories Act, particularly Section 30, which deals with the protection of workers exposed to harmful substances.
Mrs. Onyejeocha further announced that the ministry had constituted a joint inspection and investigative team to determine the full extent of the company’s compliance with occupational safety standards.
She added that further directives would be issued after the conclusion of the investigation, stressing that the ministry maintains zero tolerance for violations of occupational safety and health laws, and that the safety and welfare of Nigerian workers remain non-negotiable.
