The Ogun State Government has ordered the closure of African Refractory and Allied Products Limited (ARAP) in Ogijo following a viral video involving a former employee.
ARAP, a ramming production company that crushes quartz stones into fine powder used for furnace linings in steel manufacturing, was sealed after allegations surfaced online.
In the video, Bartholomew Aniemeka claimed he developed silicosis — a lung disease — during his employment at the company before resigning in June 2025.
During an inspection visit to the facility, the Commissioner for Environment, Ola Oresanya, accompanied by officials from the Ministry of Environment and the Ogun State Environmental Protection Agency (OGEPA), stated that the company would remain closed pending the outcome of a comprehensive investigation into the claims.
He assured residents that the government is taking the matter seriously. Bartholomew, who is currently receiving treatment at TopMed Hospital in Ogijo and is said to be in stable condition, has been guaranteed proper medical attention. Further medical examinations will be carried out to ascertain his exact health status.
The Commissioner emphasized that the state government will conduct a thorough investigation and ensure the matter is resolved appropriately.