The Federal Government has ordered the immediate shuttering of African Refractory and Allied Products (ARAP) Company in Ogun State, citing severe health risks to employees and systemic regulatory failures.
The closure follows a targeted inspection by the Federal Ministry of Labour and Employment, which resulted in the issuance of a formal Prohibition Notice against the facility.
In a statement released, the Minister of State for Labour and Employment, Nkeiruka Onyejeocha, revealed that the factory was operating under conditions that directly threatened the lives of its workforce.
“Our inspection revealed hazardous working conditions that we simply cannot overlook,” Onyejeocha stated. “Of particular concern is the workers’ prolonged exposure to silica dust, a substance that poses grave, long-term health risks to the respiratory system.”
Silica dust exposure is a known cause of silicosis, an incurable lung disease, as well as lung cancer and kidney disease.
Beyond the immediate physical dangers, the Ministry identified significant legal discrepancies in how the company was managed. Officials noted that ARAP Company had failed to maintain the necessary legal standing to operate within the sector.
“The Ministry identified several regulatory concerns, including issues with license renewals and clear discrepancies in the company’s day-to-day operations,” the Minister explained. “These findings run contrary to the strict provisions laid out in the Factories Act.”
The facility is expected to remain under lock and key indefinitely. A joint investigative team has been tasked with conducting a comprehensive audit of the site to determine the full extent of the safety breaches.
The investigative team will evaluate the plant’s compliance with national occupational safety standards, while the company is now required to address all health hazards and administrative lapses before any request for reopening can be considered.
The Ministry has signalled that this move is part of a broader crackdown on industrial negligence.
“The health and safety of Nigerian workers are non-negotiable,” Onyejeocha added. “The facility will remain shut while we investigate compliance and ensure that standards are met.” #Securitynewsalert.com
