OGEPA Resolves Dispute Between Monarch Steel Mill, Ogijo Community

By Popoola Jamiu, Abeokuta

The Ogun State Environmental Protection Agency (OGEPA) has successfully mediated a dispute between Monarch Steel Mill Limited and the Olorunsogo Ipetoro Community Development Association (CDA), Ogijo, in Sagamu Local Government Area, following a petition submitted by the community.

According to OGEPA, the petition, signed by the Chairman of the CDA, Mr. Michael Bilesanmi, raised concerns over the company’s proposed expansion and the acquisition of properties within the community.

The residents alleged that the acquisition process, aimed at facilitating the company’s expansion, had generated anxiety among property owners and requested the agency to investigate the matter.

In response, the General Manager of OGEPA, Hon. Kehinde Bello, convened a stakeholders’ meeting involving representatives of the community and Monarch Steel Mill Limited to resolve the issues through dialogue.

Speaking at the meeting, Bello emphasised the importance of proper industrial planning, noting that industries should be located within designated industrial zones while ensuring environmental sustainability and the welfare of host communities.

He explained that the proposed expansion was intended to create a buffer zone that would minimise the impact of the company’s operations on nearby residents and developed areas.

Bello stressed that although industries have the right to expand their operations, such expansion must comply with environmental regulations and respect the rights of affected residents and property owners.

Following deliberations, the parties agreed that Monarch Steel Mill Limited would not compel any resident to sell his or her property. It was also resolved that only property owners willing to sell would be considered in the company’s acquisition process.

The OGEPA boss said the resolutions were unanimously adopted by both the community and the company, expressing confidence that the agreement would promote peaceful coexistence, safeguard residents’ interests and encourage environmentally responsible industrial development.

He further disclosed that stakeholders also agreed that the community’s electricity transformer would be relocated to the company’s premises, with an access gate provided to ensure uninterrupted access for both the community and the company.

As part of the agreement, Monarch Steel Mill Limited will also undertake the repair of the transformer.