The Kwara State Government on Monday sealed off the China Kaidi Quarry site along Ilorin-Ogbomoso Road, due to significant concerns over safety of the people living in the area and environmental compliance.

The decision to seal off the quarry site followed the inspection carried out by the Kwara State Environmental Protection Agency to the company, where numerous safety violations were discovered.

A statement by KWEPA Press Officer, Ahmed Oredunni, listed the absence of essential safety equipment for workers, inadequate training programmes, and insufficient measures to prevent accidents as some conditions not fulfilled by the owners of the quarry firm.

“Besides, environmental concerns were equally raised, such as lack of proper reclamation procedures, and non-compliance with essential environmental permits and licenses,” the statement said.

“The sealing off of the quarry site 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.

The government team was led by the State Director of Environment, Mr Abayomi Idowu, accompanied by other senior officials of the Kwara State Environmental Protection Agency and members of the Civil Defence Corps.

“The closure of the quarry site 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,” the statement said.