Tuesday, February 24 2026 -The Ogun State Government has commenced an independent and comprehensive health audit of residents of Ogijo, in Sagamu Local Government Area, following concerns over possible lead exposure in the community.
The Commissioner for Health, Dr Tomi Coker, disclosed the
commencement of the health audit during a stakeholders’ engagement at Ologijo’s
Palace, following the collection of blood samples from over 500 scientifically
selected residents to determine their Blood Lead Levels.
Dr Coker said, “Shortly after the reports emerged, both the
Ministries of Health and Environment visited the communities to allay fears and
outline a clear monitoring, evaluation and response framework.
“The Ministry of Environment proceeded with environmental
audits and assessments following the closure of companies identified to pose
potential risks.
“The health sector deliberately adopted a scientific
approach to its audit process. His Excellency, Governor Dapo Abiodun, directed
that the Nigerian Institute of Medical Research be engaged to independently
conduct the study in order to ensure authenticity, transparency and global
credibility of the findings.
“We have ensured that NIMR is working independently to
deliver unbiased results, and once the report is received, appropriate
recommendations will be submitted to the governor for necessary action.”
Last November, the state government shut down seven
factories involved in lead-acid battery recycling in the Ogijo axis over
potential lead contamination.
The government also temporarily suspended lead ingot
exportation pending a full investigation.
The decision followed an on-the-spot inspection led by the
Commissioner for Environment, Dr Ola Oresanya, after a viral video raised
concerns about possible lead poisoning. Environmental audits and regulatory
reviews were initiated to safeguard public health and restore confidence.
Speaking at the Ologijo Palace, Dr Coker said, “NIMR
commenced fieldwork in the community last week and has collected over 500 blood
samples using a stratified scientific methodology, covering individuals
previously identified with elevated blood lead levels, pregnant women,
lactating mothers, children and other residents within the mapped areas of the
community.”
While some facilities previously sealed had been reopened
following compliance reviews, Dr Coker stated that the health ministry would
institute a monitoring protocol requiring periodic blood lead level testing for
workers in the affected industries.
She assured traditional leaders and residents that the
governor remained mindful of their welfare and would continue to engage the
community to develop sustainable solutions based on the outcome of the
scientific audit.
The Director-General/CEO of NIMR, Prof Oladipo Obafunwa,
explained that the institute deployed a professional team to conduct the
exercise in line with established scientific standards.
He said laboratory analyses will be handled with integrity,
with findings presented objectively.
Responding on behalf of residents, the traditional ruler,
Oba Kazeem Gbadamosi, appreciated the government for its timely intervention
and transparent engagement.
He assured of full cooperation and expressed confidence that
the audit would provide clarity and reassurance to the community.
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