Environmental Breach: Oyo Govt Seals Herbal Firm in Ibadan

 

By

Olawale Ogunbusola

 

The Oyo State Government has sealed off Ar-Rahmon Khabul Herbal Nigeria Limited, located at 20 Cele, Off Tioya Oritamerin Road, Ibadan, over confirmed environmental violations and public health concerns.

The Chairperson of OYRLEA, Hon Justice Aderonke Aderemi (rtd), said on Friday that the enforcement action was carried out by officials of the Oyo State Rule of Law Enforcement Authority (OYRLEA), in collaboration with the Oyo State Ministry of Environment and Natural Resources.

According to her, the enforcement followed multiple petitions from residents alleging persistent offensive odour and health challenges linked to the company’s operations.

She said that “the action is necessary to protect public health, preserve environmental standards, and enforce regulatory compliance across the State.”

She added that, “joint inspections by officials revealed that the company operates a herbal production facility within a densely populated residential area, in clear violation of environmental and public health standards”.

Investigations further identified tobacco leaf as a major component in its production process, generating a strong, putrid odour deemed hazardous to residents and capable of posing serious health risks to the surrounding community.

Further findings from the inspection include the emission of harmful and toxic gaseous substances into the atmosphere, the discharge of wastewater into a nearby community water body, the installation of a chimney deemed too short and directly facing residential buildings, and the accumulation of solid waste within the premises despite claims of engaging a waste contractor, among others.

Prior to the enforcement action, the Authority had issued an abatement notice directing the company to cease operations and relocate within 21 days in accordance with the Oyo State Environmental, Sanitation and Waste Control Regulations.

OYRLEA, along with the agencies that carried out the enforcement, reiterates that air pollution, hazardous waste discharge, and improper waste management are violations of environmental laws.

She reaffirmed OYRLEA’s commitment to sustained monitoring and enforcement to ensure a safe and healthy environment for all residents.