The Kwara State Government has finally closed down the China Kaidi Quarry site along the Ilorin-Ogbomoso highway.
The government explained that the site was shut down due to significant concerns over the safety of people living in the area and environmental compliance.
The decision to seal off the quarry on Monday was taken after the inspection carried out by the Kwara State Environmental Protection Agency (KWEPA), where numerous safety violations were discovered, including the absence of essential safety equipment for workers, inadequate training programmes, and insufficient measures to prevent accidents.
Besides, environmental concerns were equally raised, such as the lack of proper reclamation procedures and non-compliance with essential environmental permits and licences.
According to report, the sealing off of the quarry further underscores the state government’s commitment to prioritise the well-being of Kwarans and protect the environment from potential harm caused by mining activities.
Following an earlier inspection visit to the quarry a fortnight ago, the state government expressed deep reservations about the quarry’s non-adherence to safety protocols and environmental regulations.
The site was believed to have posed a significant risk to the safety and health of the people living in the area and the workers, as well as potential harm to the surrounding ecosystem.
The inspection team was led by the State Director of Environment, Abayomi Idowu, accompanied by other senior staff of the Kwara State Environmental Protection Agency and members of the Civil Defence Corps.
Abayomi asserted: “The closure of the quarry is a necessary step to protect the lives of people living in the area, the workers, and the environment. We cannot compromise on safety and responsible mining practises.”