Oyo Seals Ar-Rahmon Khabul Herbal Over Health Concerns

By Modupe Gbadeyanka

An Ibadan-based herbal company, Ar-Rahmon Khabul Herbal Nigeria Limited, has been sealed by the Oyo State Rule of Law Enforcement Authority (OYRLEA).

The state government, in a statement signed on Friday by the Commissioner for Information, Mr Dotun Oyelade, revealed that the herbal firm was shut down due to environmental violations and public health concerns.

The leader of OYRLEA, Mrs Aderonke Aderemi, explained that the action was taken after multiple petitions from residents alleging persistent offensive odour and health challenges linked to the company’s operations.

She noted that the state government swung into action “to protect public health, preserve environmental standards, and enforce regulatory compliance across the state.”

It was gathered that investigations identified tobacco leaf as a major component in its production process, generating a strong, putrid odour deemed hazardous to residents and capable of posing serious health risks to the surrounding community.

“Joint inspections by officials revealed that the company operates a herbal production facility within a densely populated residential area, in clear violation of environmental and public health standards,” the statement said, adding that further findings from the inspection include the emission of harmful and toxic gaseous substances into the atmosphere, the discharge of wastewater into a nearby community water body, the installation of a chimney deemed too short and directly facing residential buildings, and the accumulation of solid waste within the premises despite claims of engaging a waste contractor, among others.

Prior to the enforcement action, the agency had issued an abatement notice directing the company to cease operations and relocate within 21 days in accordance with the Oyo State Environmental, Sanitation and Waste Control Regulations.

OYRLEA, along with the agencies that carried out the enforcement, reiterates that air pollution, hazardous waste discharge, and improper waste management are violations of environmental laws.

Mrs Aderemi reaffirmed OYRLEA’s commitment to sustained monitoring and enforcement to ensure a safe and healthy environment for all residents.