The Oyo State Government has shut down Ar-Rahmon Khabul Herbal Nigeria Limited, situated at 20 Cele, Off Tioya Oritamerin Road, Ibadan, following confirmed environmental violations and public health concerns.
On Friday, Justice Aderonke Aderemi (retd), the Chairperson of the Oyo State Rule of Law Enforcement Authority (OYRLEA), announced that the enforcement action was executed by OYRLEA officials in collaboration with the Oyo State Ministry of Environment and Natural Resources.
This announcement was made in a statement issued by Prince Dotun Oyelade, the Commissioner for Information, and shared with the press in Ibadan.
The closure came in response to numerous complaints from residents regarding a persistent foul odor and health issues associated with the company’s operations.
Justice Aderemi stated, “This action is essential to safeguard public health, maintain environmental standards, and ensure compliance with regulations throughout the state.” She emphasized that joint inspections revealed that the company operates a herbal production facility within a densely populated residential area, violating environmental and public health guidelines.
Further investigations indicated that tobacco leaves are a significant ingredient in the production process, leading to a noxious odor considered harmful to residents and capable of posing serious health risks.
The inspection also revealed alarming findings, such as the release of harmful and toxic gases into the atmosphere, discharging wastewater into a nearby water body, and the installation of a chimney that is inadequately positioned, directly facing residential areas. Additionally, there was an accumulation of solid waste on the premises, despite claims of hiring a waste management contractor.
Before this enforcement, OYRLEA had issued a notice directing the company to halt operations and relocate within 21 days, as stipulated by Oyo State Environmental, Sanitation, and Waste Control Regulations.
Justice Aderemi reiterated the authority’s commitment to combating air pollution, hazardous waste discharge, and mismanagement of waste, all of which are breaches of environmental laws. She assured that OYRLEA would continue monitoring and enforcing regulations to ensure a safe and healthy living environment for all residents.
