Edo State Governor urges Rongtai Building Materials to improve safety

Edo State Governor Monday Okpebholo has called on the management of Rongtai Building Materials Nigeria Ltd. to strengthen safety protocols following the deaths of at least five workers within a single month. The fatalities, which included incidents of electrocution and falls from cranes, triggered violent protests by workers and community youths. During the unrest, a section of the company was razed, resulting in the destruction of over 20 vehicles and motorcycles.

During a visit to the facility in Utesi, Ikpoba-Okha Local Government Area, Governor Okpebholo emphasized the necessity of improved medical and security infrastructure. He noted that the presence of an on-site clinic might have mitigated the crisis. The governor expressed satisfaction that the company is currently constructing a clinic, procuring an ambulance, and recruiting medical staff.

To address security concerns, the governor discussed establishing a police presence at the site with housing for officers to protect the company’s 8,000 employees. He also urged the firm to improve internal roads to prevent criminals from exploiting poor infrastructure to attack vehicles and staff.