The Kwara State Government recently ordered the immediate closure of the China Kaidi Quarry, which is located along the Ilorin-Ogbomoso Highway, due to significant concerns over the safety of people living in the area and environmental compliance. The decision was made following a comprehensive inspection carried out by the Kwara State Environmental Protection Agency (KWEPA).
The KWEPA discovered numerous safety violations during the inspection, such as the absence of essential safety equipment for workers, inadequate training programs, and inadequate measures to prevent accidents. The inspection also raised environmental concerns, such as the lack of proper reclamation procedures and non-compliance with essential environmental permits and licences.
This recent development underscores the state government’s commitment to prioritizing the well-being of Kwarans and protecting the environment from the potential harm caused by mining activities. It is also believed to have posed significant risks 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 state government had previously expressed deep reservations about the quarry’s non-adherence to safety protocols and environmental regulations after an inspection visit to the quarry a fortnight ago. The inspection team was led by Abayomi Idowu, the State Director of Environment, accompanied by other senior staff of the Kwara State Environmental Protection Agency and members of the Civil Defence Corps.
Abayomi, speaking about the closure of the quarry, said, “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 practices.”
