The Chairman of the Nasarawa State House of Assembly Committee on Environment, Hon. Adamu Omadefu, has unveiled serious environmental and labour concerns linked to Multiverse, a Chinese mining company exploiting mineral resources in Nigeria. The company operates in Abuni, Awe Local Government Area, and has been accused of disregarding the welfare of its host community.

During a virtual media briefing, Omadefu highlighted the severe impact of the company’s activities on the environment and local residents. He revealed that water sources, polluted by mining operations, are unfit for human consumption—a claim the company reportedly confirmed. “The situation is dire. The community lacks basic infrastructure and healthcare, exposing residents to health risks caused by environmental pollution,” Omadefu stated.

The lawmaker’s revelations stemmed from an oversight visit initiated after petitions from civil society organisations, including the Renevlyn Development Initiative (RDI), Environmental Defenders Network (EDEN), and Citizens Free Service Forum (CFSF). These groups demanded an environmental audit, stricter enforcement of Community Development Agreements (CDAs), and penalties for non-compliant companies.

Omadefu also condemned Multiverse for its exploitative labour practices, citing reports that workers are paid as little as N2,500 per day despite enduring gruelling conditions. He criticised the company’s failure to fulfil its Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) commitments, including promises to construct roads, establish healthcare facilities, and implement skill acquisition programmes.

“These actions show a blatant disregard for the host community’s well-being,” Omadefu remarked, warning that continued neglect could lead to unrest among frustrated youth.

He assured that the state assembly would enforce accountability among mining companies operating in Nasarawa. “We will invoke relevant laws against companies that flout their obligations. Mining firms must prioritise the welfare of host communities and mitigate environmental damage while exploiting mineral resources in Nigeria,” he declared.

The lawmaker called for stronger oversight of the mining sector, emphasising that companies must balance resource extraction with sustainable development to protect the environment and the rights of local communities.

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