THANK YOU, HON. (DR.) ADESOLA ELEGBEJI, COMM. OLA ORESANYA, HON. KENNY BELLO & HON. OYENIYI OWOLANA

It is with great joy and sincere appreciation that I commend the remarkable efforts of these distinguished leaders for their swift and decisive intervention in addressing the long‑standing environmental hazards in the Ogijo area of Sagamu, Ogun State. Their actions have undoubtedly prevented what could have become a major public health disaster, especially for residents who had unknowingly been exposed to toxic emissions in exchange for economic survival.

For years, unregulated and unsafe industrial activities — particularly those involving lead‑acid battery recycling — have operated in clear violation of environmental and occupational safety standards. The risks posed to workers and the surrounding communities were severe, ranging from toxic exposure to life‑threatening health complications.

The prompt professional action of Hon. Commissioner Ola Oresanya, who immediately ordered the shutdown of the unsafe lead‑acid factory, deserves commendation. Equally worthy of recognition is the proactive legislative intervention of our House of Representatives Member, Dr. (Mrs.) Adesola Ayoola Elegbeji, who raised the matter at the Green Chamber, ensuring it received urgent oversight attention.

Their combined efforts reflect not only dedication to their offices but also genuine concern for human life and community well‑being. This is leadership with empathy, competence, and integrity.

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THE WAY FORWARD

While this intervention is commendable, it also highlights the urgent need to strengthen and update environmental and occupational safety laws in Ogun State and across Nigeria. Key areas requiring immediate attention include:

🔹 Review of outdated factory and environmental laws
These laws must be updated in collaboration with:
- The Federal Ministry of Environment 
- The Ogun State Ministry of Environment 
- Professional environmental associations 

This synergy is essential to ensure modern, enforceable standards.

🔹 Mandatory use of proper PPE
Workers must not be exposed to toxic materials such as lead and acid without:
- Approved personal protective equipment 
- Proper supervision and enforcement 

🔹 Comprehensive training on occupational health and safety
Industries must be required to train workers on:
- COSHH (Control of Substances Hazardous to Health) 
- General workplace safety procedures 
- Environmental compliance 

🔹 Prevention of exploitative industrial practices
Foreign or local companies must not be allowed to operate below global safety standards simply because regulations are outdated or poorly enforced.

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CONCLUSION

Once again, I extend heartfelt appreciation to Hon. (Dr.) Princess Adesola Ayoola Elegbeji, Commissioner Oladimeji Oresanya, Hon. Kenny Bello
GM Ogun state environmental protection agency and Hon. Oyeniyi Owolana
Special Assistant to the Governor of the Environment for their proactive leadership under the administration of Prince Dapo Abiodun and the broader national commitment to improved governance.

Their actions have protected lives, restored hope, and demonstrated what responsive leadership looks like.

God bless Nigeria. 
God bless Ogun State. 
God bless Remo.

Composed by: 
Hon. Gbenga Ogundipe 
Concerned Citizen of Ogun State 
Walkden, United Kingdom 
26th March 2026
ogundipe_gbenga01@yahoo.com