Ebonyi Assembly frowns at illegal mining, summons company

2026-03-17 - 16:04

By Jeff Agbodo, Abakaliki ABAKALIKI – The Ebonyi State House of Assembly has condemned illegal and unsafe mining activities in the state, summoning a mining firm to appear before its Committee on Solid Mineral Development. Chairman of the Committee, Hon. Ifeanyi Nwakpu, expressed concern over the operations of Jeo Royal Mining Company, accusing it of failing to comply with provisions of the Mining Act. Nwakpu warned that such activities could lead to loss of lives and property, particularly in host communities like Enyim Agalegu, Ndufu-Alike Ikwo. The lawmaker made the remarks during an unscheduled oversight visit to the company’s site, where he directed its management to appear before the committee on Thursday, March 19, 2026, to explain its operations. He said the company is expected to present all relevant documents guiding its activities, including its Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA). According to him, preliminary findings from the visit indicated that the company had failed to implement adequate safety measures as required by law. Nwakpu, however, assured that the state government, under Governor Francis Nwifuru, remains committed to protecting the lives and property of citizens. He also raised concerns over the activities of illegal artisanal miners in Enyigba and Ishiagu communities in Abakaliki Local Government Area, attributing their actions to greed and the pursuit of quick financial gains. He warned them to immediately shut down unsafe mining pits to prevent possible collapse and loss of lives. In response, the company’s manager, represented by its translator, Judy Chen, said efforts were underway to ensure compliance with mining regulations and agreements with host communities. She commended the Assembly committee for the visit and appreciated the state government for providing a conducive and secure environment for mining operations.