OGEPA Moves Against Environmental Violations at Ogun East Mining Sites

 

Aina Obasanjo 

The Ogun State Environmental Protection Agency, OGEPA, has commenced an enforcement and assessment exercise at mining sites across the Ogun East Senatorial District to identify and address environmental and health risks arising from mining and industrial activities.

The exercise is also aimed at examining operators’ environmental documents and assessing the impact of gaseous emissions, dust, smoke and other pollutants on workers, residents and the surrounding environment.

The General Manager of OGEPA, Hon Kehinde Bello, said prolonged exposure to pollutants from mining, quarrying and blasting activities could pose serious respiratory health risks and negatively affect the environment.

He explained that the exercise would enable the Agency to collect data on air quality in mining communities and take appropriate regulatory action where violations or non-compliance with environmental standards are established.

Hon. Bello stressed that the exercise was part of OGEPA’s mandate to protect the environment, safeguard public health and promote responsible and sustainable industrial practices across Ogun State.

He urged mining operators to comply with environmental regulations and ensure that their activities do not endanger workers or residents of host communities.

The Head of the OGEPA Task Force Unit, Mr. Olusesi Opaleye, said officials were monitoring operational practices capable of causing air pollution and other environmental hazards.

He added that the exercise was also being used to sensitise operators on the need to obtain the necessary environmental approvals before commencing operations and adopt safer practices.