The Ogun State Government has ordered the immediate closure of African Refractory and Allied Products Limited, ARAP, located in Ogijo, following a viral video in which a former employee alleged that he contracted silicosis while working with the company.
The decision was announced by the Commissioner for Environment, Ola Oresanya, during a fact finding visit to the facility alongside officials of the Ministry of Environment and the Ogun State Environmental Protection Agency. He stated that the company would remain shut pending the outcome of investigations into the allegations raised in the video.
In the widely circulated footage, Bartholomew Aniemeka claimed he developed a lung related illness, which he described as silicosis, as a result of exposure to quartz dust during his time at the ramming production company. He said he left the company in June 2025 after his health deteriorated.
Oresanya assured residents that the state government was taking the matter seriously and would ensure that due process is followed.
He added that the government would not compromise on environmental and occupational safety standards.
The Commissioner also disclosed that the former worker is currently in stable condition at TopMed Hospital in Ogijo, where he is undergoing medical evaluation.
According to him, a series of tests have been scheduled to determine his true state of health.
He assured that the state government would facilitate proper medical care for the affected individual and bring the matter to a logical conclusion after a thorough investigation.
