Environmental Degradation: Anambra Assembly vows cracks down on Illegal Mining

The Anambra State House of Assembly has sounded the alarm over the escalating environmental crisis caused by illegal mining activities in Aguleri, Anambra East Local Government Area, vowing to take swift action against operators flouting regulatory standards and endangering local communities.

The alarm was raised following an oversight visit to two major mining sites in the area by members of the House Committee on Petroleum and Mineral Resources, led by its Chairman, Honourable Chidiebele Ibemeka. Lawmakers expressed deep concern over the unchecked sand mining operations, which they said are accelerating coastal erosion, damaging critical road infrastructure, and leaving host communities vulnerable.

During the visit, the legislators found that mining operators had failed to honor their corporate social responsibility commitments, despite extensive extraction of natural resources.

The Committee further uncovered disturbing reports of individuals impersonating military and security personnel at the sites, allegedly harassing residents and instilling fear in the community.

“This level of lawlessness is unacceptable. Operators without valid permits or credible environmental impact assessments are degrading the land and endangering lives. The House will not tolerate it,” said Hon. Ibemeka.

He assured constituents that the Assembly would summon the operators for questioning, enforce environmental compliance, and initiate collaborations with executive bodies and regulatory agencies to restore order and protect residents.

Also speaking, the Majority Leader of the House, Sir Ikenna Ofodeme, condemned the exploitative practices of the miners, stressing that communities must not be left to suffer the consequences of illegal and unregulated mining.

“It is disheartening that our people are being exploited while their environment is destroyed. Ofodeme stated. We will strengthen our oversight functions to ensure all mining activities align with legal, environmental, and social responsibilities.”

The House vowed to pursue decisive legislative measures to curb further environmental damage and uphold the rights and safety of host communities across Anambra State.

• –Ministry of Information, Anambra State