The Kwara Environmental Protection Agency (KWEPA) has sealed the China Kaidi Quarry site along the Ilorin-Ogbomoso highway for violating safety measures.

In a statement on Tuesday, Ahmed Habeeb-Oreduni, the agency’s spokesman, explained that KWEPA sealed the company due to the unavailability of essential safety equipment for workers and inadequate training programmes.

Mr Habeeb-Oredunni also cited insufficient measures to prevent accidents, lack of proper reclamation procedures, and non-compliance with essential environmental permits and licenses as the basis for the development.

“The sealing of the quarry site further underscores the government commitment to prioritise the well-being of Kwara people and protect the environment from harm caused by mining activities.

“The quarry site was believed to have posed a significant risk to the safety and health of the people living in the area, the workers, as well as potential harm to the surrounding ecosystem,” it said.

An inspection was done at the quarry site a few days before the sealing.

The spokesman said there was an inspection visit at the site by the agency and a deep reservation about their adherence to safety protocols and environmental regulations.

He further stated that the state Director of Environment, Abayomi Idowu, led the sealing, accompanied by other senior agency staff and officers of the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC).

Mr Idowu said the closure of the quarry site was necessary to protect the lives of people living in the area, workers, and the environment.

The director emphasised that the state government does not compromise on safety and responsible mining practices.

(NAN)