Five workers have died at Rongtai Building Materials Nigeria Limited in Utesi Community, Ikpoba-Okha Local Government Area of Edo State, within the past three weeks.
The deaths were reportedly caused by workplace accidents, including electrocution, a crane fall, and a forklift accident.
The development came to public attention after a violent protest erupted at the company following the death of a forklift operator. The protest led to the destruction of part of the facility, including more than 20 vehicles and motorcycles.
Governor Monday Okpebholo visited the company on Wednesday and directed its management to strengthen safety measures to protect workers.
Okpebholo also urged the company to improve its corporate social responsibility and address infrastructure and security concerns within and around the facility.
“What happened here came to me as sad news, and the incident is condemnable,” the governor said, stressing that workers’ safety must be prioritized.
He welcomed the company’s plans to establish a clinic, acquire an ambulance, and recruit medical personnel.
The governor also said he had discussed with the state Commissioner of Police, Patrick Daaor, the establishment of a police post at the facility to improve security.
The visit followed earlier government concerns over safety conditions at the company. The state Commissioner for Labour and Productivity, Godwin Eshieshie, had previously visited the facility and raised concerns over inadequate protective equipment and medical facilities for workers.
Representing the company, Huang Shibin thanked the governor for visiting the facility and appealed for improved security and a conducive environment for the business.
He also alleged that some community elders had received money from the company without ensuring that the benefits reached other members of the host community.
