Enugu Takes Stand Against Illegal Mining Activities, Strikes N1bn Deal with Mining Firm
The Enugu State government has issued a firm statement indicating its intention to no longer tolerate illegal mining activities within its jurisdiction. This determination was underscored following an agreement reached with Milhouse Energy Services Limited, a coal mining company based in Awhum, Udi Local Government Area of the state.
In this agreement, the mining company has consented to making a payment of N1 billion to the Enugu State Environmental Remediation Trust Fund. Additionally, the company has committed to making a tax payment of N100,000 for every truckload of coal extracted from the Awhum mining site.
The Enugu State government has assured the public that this fund will be administered transparently by an independent committee comprised of professionals. The primary purpose of this fund is to facilitate the remediation and restoration of the affected environment in the area.
The concerted effort to crack down on illegal mining activities was instigated by the sealing of the Awhum coal mining site. This measure was taken by the Enugu State Committee on Review of Mining Activities, overseen by the Commissioner for Environment and Climate Change, Professor Sam Ugwu. The scope of this crackdown also extended to other illegal mining sites within the state lacking proper environmental impact certification and remediation plans.
In September, the Enugu State High Court issued an interim injunction restricting Milhouse Energy Services and African Pits & Quarries Limited from engaging in any further mining activities, environmental degradation, or interference with the land at Ibite Awhum.
Subsequent to extensive discussions and negotiations with the state government, Milhouse Energy will be authorised to resume operations at the site upon compliance with the stipulated payments for environmental remediation. The state government emphasised that the firm had been conducting mining and extracting coal from the site without making any payments or obtaining approval from the state government.
Commissioner Sam Ugwu expressed, “while the state is not contesting the fact that solid minerals are on the Exclusive Legislative List, we will not accept indiscriminate mining activities and degradation of our environment.” The state government is resolute in ensuring that companies are held accountable for their impact on the environment and the local community.
Furthermore, Governor Peter Mbah’s administration has been unwavering in its commitment to curbing illegal and indiscriminate mining activities. The state has conducted enforcement tours and closed several other sites to ensure adherence to environmental regulations.
The unyielding stance of the Enugu State government against illegal mining activities serves as a testament to the significance of environmental preservation and responsible natural resource extraction. Through holding mining companies accountable and ensuring the proper restoration of affected areas, the state is taking assertive measures to safeguard the environment and the welfare of its inhabitants.
