HON. DR. PRINCESS ADESOLA AYOOLA-ELEGBEJI MOVES MOTION ON OGIJO LEAD POISONING CRISIS, CALLS FOR URGENT NATIONAL INTERVENTION

Earlier today at plenary, I drew the attention of the House to the severe lead poisoning crisis currently affecting Ogijo Community in Sagamu Local Government Area of Ogun State. I moved a motion of urgent public importance to address the scale of contamination and the growing health risks facing residents.

I highlighted the alarming environmental pollution linked to battery recycling factories operating without proper safety and environmental controls. These unsafe practices have exposed thousands of residents especially children and factory workers to dangerous levels of lead. The consequences include neurological damage, developmental disorders, organ failure, and several other life-threatening conditions.

I also raised concerns over the persistent gaps in regulatory enforcement, repeated violations by operators, and the failure of some factories to comply with environmental standards. I stressed that Nigeria cannot afford to place short-term economic gains above the safety, dignity, and well-being of its citizens.

To ensure swift action, I presented the following resolutions to the House:

1. Setting up an Ad-hoc Committee to investigate the crisis, assess the environmental and health impact, and report back within eight weeks.

2. Imposing a temporary moratorium on the export of recycled lead ingots pending the conclusion of the investigation.

3. Directing the Federal Ministry of Environment, Federal Ministry of Health and Social Welfare, NESREA, and the Ogun State Government to jointly deploy an emergency response team to Ogijo and other affected areas.

4. Urging NEMA to provide emergency medical support, humanitarian assistance, and temporary relocation for families severely affected by the contamination.

This motion reflects my firm commitment to safeguarding the lives of our people and ensuring that no community within our constituency is left to endure the consequences of environmental negligence.

I remain dedicated to working with all relevant government agencies and committees to drive accountability, strengthen compliance, and protect the health and future of the good people of Ogijo and its neighbouring communities.

Hon. Dr. Princess Adesola Ayoola-Elegbeji
Member, House of Representatives
Ikenne/Sagamu/Remo North Federal Constituency