Senate Declares Emergency Over Lead Poisoning in Lagos–Ogun Border Communities
Korede Abdullah 
LAGOS, Nigeria – The Senate on Thursday declared a national emergency following confirmation of a widespread lead-poisoning crisis affecting Ogijo, a densely populated community between Ikorodu (Lagos) and Ogun East Senatorial District.
The motion, sponsored by Senators Tokunbo Abiru (Lagos East) and Gbenga Daniel (Ogun East), described the situation as “an environmental catastrophe of global significance,” linked to years of unregulated battery recycling operations.
Investigations revealed contamination levels up to 186 times above global safety limits, exposing residents—especially children—to severe health complications, including persistent headaches, seizures, abdominal pain, cognitive decline and memory loss.
Senator Abiru cited verified findings from The Examination and The New York Times, which confirmed extensive contamination through blood testing and toxic soil sampling. He also disclosed that processed lead from Ogijo had entered global automobile supply chains.
“Children are dying slowly. Families have lived for years under poisonous smoke and dust,” Abiru said, commending the shutdown of seven factories and the temporary suspension of lead ingot exports by the federal government.
He cautioned, however, that enforcement remains weak and many operators continue to deny responsibility.
In a unanimous decision, the Senate ordered: Immediate NCDC deployment for free blood-lead testing, Provision of chelation therapy and long-term treatment, Full environmental remediation by NESREA and the Ministry of Environment, Relief and relocation support through NEMA,
Strict nationwide enforcement of lead-processing standards, and creation of a National Lead Poisoning Response and Remediation Office within NEMA. The Senate directed that all resolutions be implemented within six weeks.
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