African Refractory and Allied Products Limited (ARAP Limited) in Ogijo has been sealed by the Ogun State government over alleged spread of silicosis disease and death of employees.
The firm, a ramming production company that crushes quartz stones into fine powder used to line furnaces in steel plants, was shut pending the outcome of investigations into the claims.
In the video, Bartholomew Aniemeka alleged that he developed silicosis, a lung disease caused by inhaling silica dust during his employment before leaving the company in June 2025.
His family further claimed that the condition was initially misdiagnosed as tuberculosis due to inadequate diagnostic equipment.
During a fact-finding visit to the facility, the Ogun State Commissioner for Environment, Ola Oresanya, accompanied by officials from the Ministry of Environment and the Ogun State Environmental Protection Agency, said the company would remain closed while investigations continue.
In a statement posted on his official X handle on Sunday, Oresanya said the facility “will remain shut until investigations over the allegations are carried out.”
The statement added that the government “is on top of the situation,” assuring residents that appropriate measures were being taken to address the matter.
It also disclosed that Aniemeka, who is currently receiving treatment at TopMed Hospital, is in stable condition and has been assured of adequate medical care.
According to the statement, “series of tests have been scheduled to ascertain his true state of health,” noting that the state government “will do everything possible to bring the issue to a logical conclusion.”
In the viral livestream, the victim’s sister alleged that several of his former colleagues had died and accused the company of neglecting workplace safety concerns. She also appealed for financial assistance to support his treatment.
The state government said investigations into the matter are ongoing.
