…Agency Promises Thorough Investigation into Environmental Concerns
The Ogun State Environmental Protection Agency (OGEPA) has sealed Bonny Pie Industry, located in Akinbo Township, Ewekoro Local Government Area, following allegations that the company discharged wastewater into a river serving the community.
The enforcement action followed a petition submitted by the Olu of Akinbo, Oba Rasheed Olamilekan Balogun, who raised concerns over the alleged contamination of the community’s major water source and its potential impact on residents and the environment.
In the petition dated May 26, 2026 and addressed to the Ogun State Ministry of Environment, the monarch accused the company of discharging waste substances, chemical residues and other harmful pollutants into the environment, thereby polluting the water source relied upon by residents for drinking, cooking, farming, fishing and other domestic activities.
Oba Balogun alleged that the contamination had rendered the water unsafe for human and animal consumption, exposing residents to serious health and environmental risks.
The traditional ruler further claimed that the pollution had resulted in the death of fish and other aquatic life within and around the affected river, while also affecting domestic animals that depend on the water source.
According to the petition, the situation has caused significant hardship for residents, particularly women, children and the elderly, who now struggle to access clean and potable water.
The monarch also warned of possible outbreaks of waterborne diseases and other health complications if urgent measures were not taken to address the situation.
He described the alleged activities of the company as a threat to public health, aquatic ecosystems and the constitutional right of citizens to a safe and healthy environment.
Among other demands, the community called on the Ministry of Environment to conduct an immediate environmental inspection of the facility, undertake laboratory testing of the affected water source and ensure the remediation and restoration of the contaminated environment.
The petition also urged authorities to assess the extent of damage allegedly caused to aquatic life, domestic animals and the livelihoods of residents, while imposing appropriate sanctions if environmental violations are established.
Confirming the enforcement action, OGEPA said the industry was sealed following a preliminary inspection carried out by its Enforcement Unit.
According to a statement signed by the Agency’s Information and Public Relations Officer, Luke Adebesin, the action was taken on the directive of the General Manager of OGEPA, Hon. Kehinde Bello, after the Agency received the petition from the Akinbo monarch.
The statement disclosed that OGEPA officials promptly visited the facility to assess the situation and verify the allegations that untreated wastewater was being discharged into the river serving the community.
“Following a preliminary inspection, the Agency sealed the industry to prevent further environmental degradation, while a comprehensive investigation into the matter will continue,” the statement said.
Speaking on the development, Bello reiterated the Ogun State Government’s commitment to environmental protection and strict compliance with environmental regulations by industries operating within the state.
He assured residents of Akinbo Township that the ongoing investigation would be thorough, transparent and professionally conducted, adding that appropriate actions would be taken based on the outcome of the Agency’s findings.
Residents of the community have expressed optimism that the intervention by OGEPA will help address their concerns and ensure the protection of public health, aquatic life and the environment, while awaiting the outcome of the investigation into the allegations against the company.
