Senate Sounds Alarm Over Lead Poisoning in Ogijo

The Nigerian Senate has raised serious concern over a lead-poisoning crisis in Ogijo, a community on the Lagos–Ogun border, calling it a public-health emergency.

Reports link the contamination to used battery recycling factories, which have exposed residents to toxic lead. Affected people are experiencing headaches, abdominal pain, memory loss, seizures, and developmental delays in children.

The Federal Government has shut down seven factories and temporarily halted lead-ingot exports. Yet, some operations continued for years, releasing toxic fumes into homes, markets, and playgrounds.

Independent tests found lead levels up to 186 times the global safety limit, and contamination has entered international supply chains.

The Senate urged continued enforcement, prosecution of violators, and stricter monitoring. Emergency medical teams will provide screenings, treatment, and chelation therapy, while environmental agencies conduct soil, water, and air cleanup.

A National Lead Poisoning Response Task Force is recommended to ensure long-term protection of vulnerable communities.