The federal government has directed the immediate closure of African Refractory and Allied Products Company (ARAP) in Ogun State over alleged unsafe working conditions that may endanger employees.

The order was issued by the Minister of State for Labour and Employment, Nkeiruka Onyejeocha, following an inspection carried out by the Occupational Safety and Health Department of the Federal Ministry of Labour and Employment.

The inspection was conducted at the company’s facility located along the Ikorodu–Sagamu Expressway in Ogijo, Ogun State.

In a statement issued by the ministry’s Head of Press and Public Relations, Annah Daniel, the government said a Prohibition Notice had been served on the company, leading to the immediate shutdown of the factory pending the outcome of a comprehensive investigation.

According to the ministry, the decision followed several complaints alleging unsafe conditions at the facility, particularly the exposure of workers to silica dust, a hazardous substance associated with severe occupational health risks.

Preliminary findings from the inspection also raised concerns about regulatory compliance, including issues surrounding the renewal of the company’s operational license and inconsistencies between its officially declared activities and its current production operations.

The ministry added that the issues identified may constitute violations of Nigeria’s Factories Act, particularly Section 30, which stipulates safety measures for workers exposed to harmful substances in industrial environments.

Reacting to the development, Onyejeocha said halting operations at the facility was necessary to protect workers and prevent further exposure to potential health hazards while investigations continue.

“The action has been taken in the interest of protecting workers and preventing further risks,” she said.

The minister also disclosed that the ministry had set up a joint inspection and investigative team to evaluate the company’s compliance with occupational safety and health standards.

She noted that further directives would be issued after the investigation is concluded.

Reiterating the government’s stance, Onyejeocha warned that violations of workplace safety regulations would not be tolerated, stressing that safeguarding the health, safety, and welfare of Nigerian workers remains a key priority.

The development comes amid increasing concerns among labor stakeholders about workplace safety in Nigeria’s industrial sector and renewed calls for stricter enforcement of occupational health and safety regulations.