Federal labour officials have shut down a battery recycling facility in the Ogijo axis of Ogun State after an independent investigation revealed dangerous levels of lead exposure and hazardous working conditions. The inquiry, carried out by PREMIUM TIMES and The Examination in partnership with multiple African newsrooms, exposed environmental contamination affecting both employees and the surrounding community near the Lagos–Ogun border.
The Ministry of Labour and Employment confirmed the enforcement action in a statement, noting that the operation was supervised by the Minister of State, Nkeiruka Onyejeocha. She stressed that the government would not allow any employer to subject workers to conditions that jeopardize their health or dignity.
During her visit to True Metals, the factory identified in the investigation, the minister reported finding an environment she described as unsafe and inhumane. Officials observed workers handling materials without protective equipment, inhaling lead fumes, and operating in areas lacking basic sanitation and essential safety protocols.
The on-site assessment aligned with long-standing complaints from workers and residents—concerns that were recently validated by scientific analyses commissioned through the investigative collaboration. The results confirmed widespread lead contamination, prompting the government to immediately halt operations at the plant.
