Senate Launches Emergency Probe into Widespread Lead Poisoning in Ogijo, Lagos/Ogun

Senate Launches Emergency Probe into Widespread Lead Poisoning in Ogijo, Lagos/Ogun

The Nigerian Senate has launched a full-scale investigation into the widespread and scientifically confirmed lead poisoning devastating Ogijo, a densely populated community between Ikorodu, Lagos, and Ogun East Senatorial District.

The Upper Chamber raised alarm over the escalating public health emergency linked to multiple used lead-acid battery recycling factories, where residents—especially children, women, and factory workers—have suffered life-threatening exposure to toxic emissions for years.

To address the crisis, the Senate summoned the Ministers of Environment, Health, Solid Minerals, and Labour, alongside the Director-General of NESREA, to appear before the Committee on Environment and Solid Minerals for a detailed briefing.

The Senate approved sweeping measures, including the deployment of emergency medical teams by the Nigeria Centre for Disease Control (NCDC) for free toxicology screening, blood-lead testing, chelation therapy, and long-term treatment for victims. It also ordered a thorough environmental remediation led by the Federal Ministry of Environment and NESREA, covering soil, groundwater, air, and household dust.

Strict nationwide enforcement of battery recycling and lead-processing standards will now fall under the Ministry of Solid Minerals Development, while NEMA is to provide temporary relocation and emergency relief for severely affected families. The Senate further directed the creation of a National Lead Poisoning Response and Remediation Office within NEMA.

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Sponsored by Senators Mukhail Adetokunbo Abiru (APC, Lagos East) and Gbenga Daniel (APC, Ogun East), the motion warned that Ogijo is facing “an environmental catastrophe of global significance,” with contamination levels reaching 186 times international safety limits.

Senator Abiru cited investigations by The Examination and The New York Times, which confirmed severe lead contamination through blood tests and toxic soil sampling. He expressed shock at reports of persistent headaches, seizures, abdominal pain, memory loss, and cognitive decline among residents—symptoms strongly linked to long-term lead exposure.

He disclosed that processed lead from Ogijo had entered global supply chains serving major automobile manufacturers, while local communities continued to inhale poisonous fumes. Though he acknowledged recent federal action—including the shutdown of seven recycling factories and suspension of lead ingot exports—he insisted it was only “the first step,” citing weak enforcement and ongoing extreme exposure.

Senators Saliu Mustapha (Kwara Central), Shuaib Salisu (Ogun Central), and Babangida Hussaini (Jigawa North-West) all supported the motion, urging intensified monitoring and intervention, especially in border communities and other at-risk regions.

Senate President Godswill Akpabio, recalling a similar tragedy in Akwa Ibom in the 1980s where lead poisoning drastically reduced life expectancy, praised the sponsors for bringing national attention to the crisis.

The motion was adopted through a majority voice vote, after which Akpabio directed the Committee on Legislative Compliance to ensure full implementation and report back within two months.

Senate Launches Emergency Probe into Widespread Lead Poisoning in Ogijo, Lagos/Ogun