Alleged Illegal Mining: Group Urges NSCDC Mining Marshals to Intervene

By Aliyu Usman

The Amalokpa Development Association (ADA), a community association in Ivon Local Government Area of Ebonyi State, has called on the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC) Mining Marshals to intervene in alleged illegal mining activities in the community.

Community Petitions NSCDC Over Alleged Illegal Mining

The association made the appeal in a statement signed by its Chairman, Mr Ajah Friday, in which it called on the Commandant General of the NSCDC, particularly the leadership of the Mining Marshals, to investigate the situation and take appropriate action.

The group alleged that a mining company identified as Greenfields Metals, reportedly owned by one Henry Ahanato, was involved in illegal mining activities in the area.

The allegations contained in the petition have not been independently verified, and the company and its alleged owner were not quoted as responding to the claims.

Group Alleges Sponsorship of Unrest

According to the association, the company is allegedly sponsoring unrest in the community, which it claimed had resulted in the destruction of property.

The group alleged that the unrest was aimed at creating conditions that would enable the company to continue its mining activities in the area.

ADA urged the NSCDC Mining Marshals to investigate the allegations and determine the circumstances surrounding the reported activities.

Association Demands Vacation of Ekubara Land

The community association also called on the Mining Marshals to direct the company to vacate Ekubara land, which it alleged had been taken over without the consent or approval of the community.

The group further demanded a public apology from the company through national newspapers and recognised television stations over what it described as alleged sponsorship of arson and the destruction of property belonging to the community.

Group Seeks N3 Billion Compensation

In addition to its other demands, the association called for compensation of N3 billion over what it described as an alleged unprovoked attack and destruction of land in the community.

The group urged the NSCDC Mining Marshals to urgently intervene and investigate the activities of the mining company before the situation escalates further.

ADA Calls for Urgent Investigation

The association maintained that a prompt investigation by the relevant authorities would help establish the facts surrounding the allegations and prevent further deterioration of relations between the company and members of the community.

It appealed to the NSCDC leadership to urgently wade into the matter, investigate the alleged illegal mining activities and take appropriate action based on the outcome of its findings.