By: Tijani Salako.
The Ogun State Environmental Protection Agency, OGEPA, has commenced an enforcement and assessment exercise at mining sites across the Ogun East Senatorial District as part of efforts to identify and address environmental and health risks associated with gaseous emissions and other pollutants from mining and industrial activities, and to assess operators’ environmental documents.
This was disclosed by Luke Adebesin, the Head of Public Relations Department of OGEPA, emphasising that the exercise is part of the agency’s commitment to safeguard public health and ensure compliance with environmental laws in host communities.
According to the General Manager of OGEPA, Hon. Kehinde Bello, the exercise is aimed at assessing the possible impact of emissions from mining operations on the environment, as well as the health and well-being of workers and residents living in communities hosting the activities.
Bello explained that prolonged exposure to dust, smoke and other pollutants generated from mining, quarry activities and blasting poses significant risks to respiratory health and can have adverse effects on the surrounding environment.
He noted that the enforcement exercise will enable the agency to gather relevant data on air quality within mining communities and use the findings to determine appropriate regulatory measures where environmental violations or cases of non-compliance are established.
The OGEPA boss stressed that the exercise is part of the Agency’s broader mandate to protect the environment, safeguard public health and promote responsible and sustainable industrial practices across Ogun State.
He added that the agency will continue to monitor mining and other industrial activities to ensure that operators comply with applicable environmental standards and regulations, particularly those relating to air pollution and safe operational practices.
Bello urged mining operators to ensure that their activities do not endanger the health and safety of residents, emphasising the need for greater environmental responsibility in mining communities. He added that compliance with environmental regulations remains essential to achieving sustainable industrial development in the State.
Also speaking, the Head of the OGEPA Task Force Unit, Mr. Olusesi Opaleye, said the exercise involves the monitoring and examination of operational practices that could contribute to air pollution and other environmental hazards.
Opaleye said the exercise also provides an opportunity for the Agency to sensitise mining operators on the importance of complying with environmental regulations. He urged operators to obtain the necessary environmental approvals before commencing operations and to adopt safer operational practices that will minimise risks that could harm workers and surrounding communities.
Meanwhile, residents of communities hosting mining and blasting activities have been encouraged to report suspected environmental violations to the appropriate authorities. The Agency helmsman reiterated the commitment to sustained monitoring, enforcement and public sensitisation to ensure a cleaner, safer and healthier environment for the people of Ogun State.
