By Moses Akwashiki
Abuja
The Federal Government has ordered the immediate closure of African Refractory and Allied Products Company (ARAP) over unsafe working conditions at its facility.
The directive was issued by the Minister of State for Labour and Employment, Dr. Nkeiruka Onyejeocha, following a recent inspection by the Occupational Safety and Health Department of the Ministry at the company’s facility located at Km 46, Ikorodu–Sagamu Expressway, Ogijo, Ogun State.
According to a statement by the Head of Press and Public Relations of the Ministry, Annah Daniel, the decision followed a series of reports indicating hazardous working conditions at the facility, particularly workers’ exposure to silica dust and the associated health risks.
The Ministry also said it had received reports relating to workers’ paternity issues, which are currently under review as part of an ongoing investigation.
Preliminary findings further revealed regulatory concerns, including issues relating to licence renewal and discrepancies between the company’s declared operations and its current production activities. These findings are in line with the provisions of the Factories Act, particularly Section 30, which governs the protection of workers exposed to harmful substances.
Consequently, Onyejeocha directed the immediate shutdown of the facility pending a comprehensive investigation.
The minister noted that the action was taken in the interest of protecting workers and preventing further health and safety risks.
She further disclosed that a joint inspection and investigative team has been constituted by the Ministry to determine the full extent of the company’s compliance with Occupational Safety and Health standards.
According to her, further directives will be issued upon the conclusion of the investigation.
Onyejeocha reiterated the Ministry’s zero tolerance for violations of occupational safety and health laws, stressing that the safety and welfare of Nigerian workers remain non-negotiable.
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