Owerri Capital Territory Under Siege”: Imo State Government Declares Ban on Sand Mining to Address Environmental Concerns

The Imo State Government has announced a ban on all sand mining and dredging activities within Owerri Capital Territory, citing environmental damage and the need to protect public infrastructure and communities.

In a statement released Thursday, the government described the move as necessary in light of the growing threats posed by unregulated mining. The authorities expressed concern that ongoing activities have contributed to the degradation of natural waterways, the weakening of infrastructure, and increased flooding in several parts of the city.

According to the Commissioner for Industry, Mines, and Solid Minerals, Barrister Ernest Ibejiako Nwa-nda, various locations in the capital have experienced damage linked to dredging. The Egbeada–Irete Road has reportedly collapsed, while the perimeter fence of Alvan Ikoku Federal College of Education has been compromised. Bridges near the Federal Medical Centre and Alvan Ikoku College have also sustained structural damage. The Nworie River, once a narrow stream, has widened as a result of continuous dredging, while diverted river channels have contributed to flooding and erosion in surrounding communities.

The commissioner stated that several of the affected sites had already been identified as unsuitable for dredging as far back as 2017. He noted that although a previous directive was issued in 2019 by the Federal Ministry of Solid Minerals to halt such operations, the activities have continued in various parts of the capital.

To address these concerns, the state government has invoked Section 28 of the Land Use Act of 1978, which allows the governor to act in the public interest. Under this provision, the government has prohibited all mining and dredging activities within Owerri Capital Territory. Additional measures include the prosecution of individuals found violating the directive, the withdrawal of existing mining licenses in the area, and the enforcement of environmental regulations for any permitted activities outside the capital. These include the Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA), Environmental Management Plan (EMP), Emergency Preparedness and Response Plan (EPRP), and Community Development Agreements (CDA).

The state also submitted visual documentation, including photographs and videos, to the Federal Ministry of Solid Minerals to support its position and show the extent of the impact on affected areas.

In response, a federal delegation led by Engineer Ganihu Imam, a director in the Ministry of Mines and Solid Minerals, visited the sites for assessment. He noted that while many dredging operations take place on the outskirts of Owerri, some have expanded into areas near key infrastructure. He indicated that the ministry would take necessary steps to suspend high-risk operations.

Several stakeholders in the mining sector have responded to the state’s decision. Hon. Ugochukwu Onyenwenwa, Chairman of the Imo State chapter of the Miners and Dredgers Association, expressed understanding of the government’s position. He also pointed to the role of certain officials and landowners who, according to him, have contributed to the problem by facilitating unauthorized access.

Hon. Dominic Mgbe, Chairman of the Minerals and Mining Association of Nigeria (MINACO) and former Commissioner for Environment and Solid Minerals, said the situation calls for efforts to repair damaged areas and implement measures to prevent further erosion.

Engineer Ubong Obo, the Zonal Controller of Environment for the South East, highlighted potential legal consequences for those violating environmental laws. He requested a comprehensive list of companies and individuals involved in illegal mining activities and described the current state of the environment in Owerri as a matter of concern.

With the city facing challenges related to infrastructure, flooding, and displacement of communities, the Imo State Government has called for cooperation among local stakeholders, federal agencies, and community leaders to address the issue and prevent future occurrences.

The Commissioner noted that the aim of the government’s actions is to protect public safety, preserve the environment, and maintain the livability of the capital city.