Illegal mining in Akwa Ibom State has become a major concern for the local community. It all started when the Commissioner for Environment and Mineral Resources, Mr. Uno Uno, revealed last August that the state government had taken action against a Chinese firm, Ruitai Mining Limited, for operating without the necessary licenses and permits. The company was found to be mining titanium ore in Ibeno community, which is a significant oil and marine community in the state.
The commissioner, along with a joint ministerial inspection team, visited the mining site and discovered sacks of titanium ore. Interestingly, the company’s top officials, Mr. Zeng Zhonghuan and Huang Ying, were not present at the site, and the available staff members could not provide any information or documents. It was also revealed that the board of directors of the company consisted solely of Chinese nationals, which is a violation of Nigerian law. As a result, the state government ordered the company to cease its operations.
However, recent reports from the Ekid Peoples Union indicate that illegal mining activities are still ongoing in the state. The union claims that Ruitai Mining Limited continues to mine ilmenite, a valuable mineral, without the necessary authorization or consent from the community. These illegal activities are said to take place at night, with the mined products being transported out of the state discreetly.
The Ekid Peoples Union further alleges that certain individuals within the government are aiding and abetting these illegal activities. They criticize the lack of communication from the Chinese company and the government regarding the ongoing mining operations. This blatant disregard for the law and the negative impact on the environment, security, and economy of the state is deeply concerning.
It is not surprising to hear about Chinese companies engaging in illegal mining activities in Nigeria. Similar incidents have been reported in other states, resulting in environmental destruction and conflicts with local communities. The Ekid Peoples Union, having experienced the harmful effects of oil pollution, is particularly vocal about the need to address these illegal activities.
The Akwa Ibom State government must take immediate action to address the concerns raised by the Ekid Peoples Union. Questions have been raised about the registration of the Chinese company and its alleged support from the office of the Commissioner of Lands. The mining activities are taking place in the Stubbs Creek Forest, a protected forest reserve that has suffered significant damage due to the mining operations. It is crucial to investigate whether the Chinese company obtained the necessary licenses and conducted an Environmental Impact Assessment.
In conclusion, it is commendable that the Ekid Peoples Union is speaking out against the illegal mining activities in Akwa Ibom State. The state government should learn from the experiences of other states and take decisive action to protect the interests of the local community and the environment. The Chinese company involved in these illegal activities must be held accountable and the mining operations halted immediately.