Federal Government Shuts Three Ogun Factories Over Safety Violations
The federal government has ordered the closure of three factories in the Ogijo area of Ogun State over alleged safety violations and reported worker deaths.
The affected factories are African Refractory and Allied Products (ARAP), African Non-Ferrous Industries Ltd, and Metalworld Recycling Ltd.
Nkeiruka Onyejeocha, minister of state for labour and employment, issued the directive on Wednesday during an occupational safety and health inspection of the facilities.
According to the minister, the factories had repeatedly failed to comply with safety regulations despite prior warnings. She noted that their operations had been linked to multiple fatalities.
Onyejeocha revealed that officials from the ministry had earlier visited the factories and issued a 90-day compliance notice on December 9, 2025. The notice outlined clear violations, including failure to meet required safety standards, lack of mandatory hazard training, and inadequate provision of personal protective equipment.
“We gave them written notice as far back as December 9, 2025, highlighting clear violations of safety standards,” she said. “However, there was no response, and no corrective action was taken. The reality is that they do not value human lives. Workers are dying daily, and many of these cases go unaccounted for.”
The minister added that the sealed factories would face appropriate sanctions in line with existing laws, stressing that they had been duly notified before enforcement action was taken.
She also warned that any factory intending to change its production processes must follow due procedures and obtain the necessary approvals and certifications before proceeding.
While acknowledging the importance of economic activity, Onyejeocha emphasized that it must not come at the cost of human lives.
“Nigeria cannot continue to lose its citizens due to unsafe industrial practices,” she said.