By Nwanneka Okechukwu
The Anambra State Government has reaffirmed its commitment to resolving the dispute surrounding mining activities in Uga Community, Aguata Local Government Area, with assurances that issues relating to environmental safety, community welfare and mining operations will receive necessary attention.
The Commissioner for Petroleum and Mineral Resources, Prof. Charles Ofoegbu, gave the assurance during a peace meeting with representatives of Umuoru Village and mining stakeholders at his office in Jerome Udoji Secretariat, Awka on November 4.
Prof. Ofoegbu said the state government would prioritise peace, public safety and environmental protection, particularly concerns over mining activities allegedly contributing to damage to drainage channels, roads and surrounding communities, as well as increasing the risk of flooding.
He emphasised the need for the reclamation of affected mining sites, noting that environmental assessments and relevant technical reports would determine whether mining operations could be allowed to resume.
The commissioner also expressed concern over the absence of properly documented community benefits and corporate social responsibility commitments by some mining operators. He called for the formalisation of community development agreements and greater accountability in the mining sector.
He explained that he would consult relevant authorities before communicating the government’s final position on the dispute, reiterating its determination to promote peaceful coexistence, protect the environment and ensure that host communities benefit from mining activities.
Speaking at the meeting, the General Chairman of Umuoru Village, Uga, Nze Festus Nnaumere, commended the Commissioner for his mature and professional approach to handling the matter, describing peace as a critical requirement for sustainable community development.
In his contribution, a miner and immediate past Chairman of Umudimishii Umuoru, Nze Ndubuisi Egbogu, alleged that some members of the community were attempting to take over his mining licence.
He maintained that the licence was non-transferable and expressed his willingness to cooperate with the Commissioner’s peace initiative, observing that no investor would be willing to conduct business in an atmosphere of conflict and uncertainty.
Nwanneka Okechukwu is of the Ministry of Information and Value Reformation, Anambra State
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