The Federal Government has ordered the immediate shutdown of African Refractory and Allied Products Company, ARAP, over concerns about unsafe working conditions that allegedly put employees at serious health risk.
The directive was issued by the Minister of State for Labour and Employment, Nkeiruka Onyejeocha, following an inspection conducted by the Occupational Safety and Health Department of the Federal Ministry of Labour and Employment.
The inspection took place at the company’s facility situated along the Ikorodu–Sagamu Expressway in Ogijo, Ogun State.
In a statement released by the ministry’s Head of Press and Public Relations, Annah Daniel, the government confirmed that a Prohibition Notice had been issued, leading to the immediate closure of the factory pending the outcome of a detailed investigation.
According to the ministry, the action followed multiple reports alleging unsafe conditions at the facility, particularly the exposure of workers to silica dust, a hazardous substance linked to serious occupational health problems.
Initial findings from the inspection also highlighted concerns over regulatory compliance. These include issues related to the renewal of the company’s operational licence as well as discrepancies between its officially declared activities and the nature of its current production operations.
The ministry noted that the observed issues may amount to violations of Nigeria’s Factories Act of Nigeria, especially Section 30, which outlines safety measures meant to protect workers exposed to harmful substances in industrial workplaces.
Speaking on the development, Onyejeocha explained that the decision to halt operations was necessary to safeguard the workforce and prevent further exposure to potential health hazards while investigations are ongoing.
“The action has been taken in the interest of protecting workers and preventing further risks,” the minister stated.
She further disclosed that the ministry has constituted a joint inspection and investigative team tasked with assessing the company’s level of compliance with occupational safety and health standards.
According to the minister, additional directives will be issued after the investigative process is completed.
Reaffirming the government’s position, Onyejeocha warned that authorities would not tolerate breaches of workplace safety regulations.
She emphasised that protecting the health, safety and welfare of Nigerian workers remains a top priority for the government.
The development comes amid growing concerns among labour stakeholders over workplace safety practices in Nigeria’s industrial sector and increasing calls for stricter enforcement of occupational health and safety regulations.
