The Chairman of the Nigeria Union of Mine Workers (NUMW), Anambra State chapter, Comrade Kelvin Onyah, has issued a stern warning to illegal miners disrupting the state’s mining programme. He urged them to avoid encroaching on approved mining sites or face legal consequences.
Onyah’s statement followed Governor Charles Soludo’s review of the suspension on mining activities in Anambra, which the NUMW applauded. “Comrade Onyah Kelvin Chimbuzor and the entire executive of the NUMW appreciate Soludo for reviewing the suspension of mining activities in the state. We thank him for his good governance,” the statement read.
Onyah stressed that all members must avoid illegal mining, reiterating that any miner must register and secure a mining certificate before engaging in mining activities. Those without certificates, he warned, would be considered illegal miners.
This warning comes after Governor Soludo suspended all mining activities in Anambra, following complaints of malpractice. The State Attorney-General and Commissioner for Justice, Professor Sylvia Ifemeje, alongside other commissioners, highlighted that mining was being carried out in violation of the Mining Act of 2007 and Anambra State’s environmental laws.
The state government expressed concern about the damage caused by illegal mining, including environmental degradation and health hazards in host communities. It also cautioned that violators would face severe penalties, including arrest and prosecution.
Onyah added that the state government had begun issuing operational licenses to recognised miners, ensuring peace and orderliness at approved sites. The NUMW pledged to cooperate with the government to ensure only legal mining activities occur in the state.
