Gov Uzodimma orders immediate shutdown of all mining sites in Owerri

Imo State Governor, Hope Uzodimma, has ordered the immediate shutdown of all mining operations within Owerri, the state capital.

The directive, issued on Tuesday, June 3, was announced by the Imo State Commissioner for Industry, Mines, and Solid Minerals, Ernest Ibejiako, during a press briefing at the Imo State Secretariat in Owerri.

According to Commissioner Ibejiako, the governor’s decision stems from growing concerns over the environmental impact, public safety, and the unauthorized exploitation of natural resources in and around the capital city.

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“All mining activities within Owerri are henceforth banned. Anyone found violating this directive will face the full weight of the law,” Ibejiako warned.

The commissioner cited health and environmental safety concerns as major reasons behind the decision of the state to ban mining activities in Owerri.

He said, “Today marks the end of mining activity within the capital territory of the state.”

Listing some of the areas affected to include Army Barracks, Obinze and other parts of Owerri West LGA, Ibejiako warned that sanctions would be meted against defaulters.

“This is the governor’s directive, it will be executed to the latter,” he said.

According to the commissioner, the state has also dispatched a team of monitors across Owerri.

Ibejiako said that the team of monitors would ensure complete compliance with the new directive from the governor.

He also said that the team have been saddled with the responsibility of ensuring that the ban on mining is enforced.

He added that while anyone found violating the bee directive will be prosecuted, Ibejiako said the ban will help protect Owerri and its environs from undue environmental hazards posed by mining activities.