Ebonyi inaugurates task force to tackle illegal mining

The Ebonyi State Government, on Thursday, inaugurated a task force to strengthen regulation of mining activities, curb illegal operations and block revenue leakages in the sector.

In a speech at the inauguration, the Commissioner for Solid Minerals Development, Chinedu Nkah, said the task force would monitor mining and quarry activities across the three senatorial districts and ensure that the operators complied with relevant laws and regulations.

Mr Nkah said the task force became necessary because of the strategic importance of solid minerals to the state’s economy.

He said the operators must comply with Community Development Agreements, safety standards and statutory revenue obligations.

He warned mining operators against abandoning excavated pits, engaging in unsafe practices, under-declaring minerals or transporting mineral products illegally, particularly at night.

The commissioner also directed the task force to monitor mineral-bearing trucks, verify revenue payments and official clearances, and ensure that prohibited practices, including the use of children and pregnant women in mining, were strictly adhered to.

He cautioned members against extortion and abuse of office, saying that they must obtain appropriate directives before sealing mining companies or taking major enforcement actions.

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He said that members would receive operational guidelines and training from the ministry and security agencies, while official identification materials would be provided to distinguish authorised personnel from impostors.

Also speaking, the Senior Special Assistant to the Governor on Solid Minerals Development, Chima Ude, urged the task force members to use their identification cards responsibly.

He warned that abuse of the privilege would attract legal consequences.

Mr Udeh said the initiative was part of government’s broader efforts to improve oversight, boost revenue mobilisation and ensure that solid mineral resources contribute meaningfully to the development of Ebonyi and its mining communities.

(NAN)