Four Mining Companies Shut Down In Ebonyi For Ignoring Community Pact

Four Mining Companies Shut Down In Ebonyi For Ignoring Community Pact

The Ebonyi State Government took action on Wednesday by sealing four mining companies for failing to adhere to the terms outlined in the Community Development Agreement (CDA). The CDA is intended to ensure that mining companies contribute positively to the development of the communities where they operate……CONTINUE READING 

A joint task force led by the Commissioner for Solid Minerals and Natural Resources, Hon. Chidi Onyia, executed the closures. He emphasized that the companies had been given ample time to meet CDA requirements but chose to ignore them. “The companies were granted sufficient time since July of last year to comply, yet they failed to follow the rules,” he stated.

The companies affected by this decision include Anli Mining and Investment Ltd., China Solid Rock 1 and 2 in Ngodo Amachi, Afikpo Local Government Area, and Shenglong Mining in Eziulo, Ishielu Local Government Area. According to the commissioner, these sites will remain closed until the companies comply with state directives.

Onyia expressed concern over the treatment of Ebonyi residents, noting, “The people of Ebonyi are being treated as if they have no value. The Mining Act mandates that every miner prepare a CDA that benefits and uplifts the community in which they operate. Unfortunately, many mining companies in Ebonyi have disregarded this, which is unacceptable.”

He further stated, “Although these companies have leased land from the Federal Government, they must ensure that local communities benefit from their operations.” Onyia criticized Shenglong Mining for presenting what he deemed a fraudulent CDA. “The agreement provided by Shenglong is not valid. There are clear procedures for developing a CDA. How can a company of its size justify offering the community only one million naira annually?” he questioned.

He added, “Other companies in Ebonyi are actively constructing tarred roads for their host communities. Why is Shenglong different?” The commissioner assured the public that the state government would continue to monitor mining activities to ensure compliance with the law, warning that any company found in violation would face closure.