The Federal Ministry of Labour and Employment has ordered the immediate closure of African Refractory and Allied Products Company (ARAP) over an unsatisfactory work environment.

Issuing a prohibition notice for closure, the Minister of State for Labour and Employment, Nkeiruka Onyejeocha, said the action followed a recent inspection by the Occupational Safety and Health Department of the Ministry at the company’s facility at Kilometre 46, Ikorodu-Sagamu Expressway, Ogijo, Ogun State.

She explained that the decision follows a series of reports indicating hazardous working conditions at the facility, particularly concerning workers’ exposure to silica dust and the associated health risks.

The ministry has also received reports of workers’ paternity, which are currently under review as part of an ongoing investigation.
Preliminary findings indicated regulatory concerns, including issues related to licence renewal and discrepancies between the company’s declared operations and its current production activities, in line with the provisions of the Factories Act, particularly Section 30, which governs the protection of workers exposed to harmful substances.

Onyejeocha, therefore, directed the immediate shutdown of the facility pending a comprehensive investigation.

The Minister notes that this action has been taken in the interest of protecting workers and preventing further risks.

She hinted that a joint inspection and investigative team has been constituted by the Ministry to determine the full extent of compliance with Occupational Safety Standards.
The minister stated that further directives will be issued upon conclusion of the investigation.

She reiterated the Ministry’s zero tolerance for violations of occupational safety and health laws, stressing that the safety and welfare of Nigerian workers remain non-negotiable.