The Enugu State Government has initiated the process of closing down illegal mining sites and those operating without the necessary environmental impact certifications and mitigation plans.
Following an on-site inspection of a mining site in Awhum, located in the Udi Local Government Area of the state, the Commissioner for Environment and Climate Change, Prof. Sam Ugwu, addressed the press. He emphasized that the government would not stand idly while the environment is ravaged and lives are put at risk.
He issued a stern warning that any company found to have broken the seal and resumed operations without government approval would face arrest and prosecution in the state Environmental Protection Court.
The Commissioner said, “We are here basically to look at what is going on here and to seal the place on behalf of the Enugu State government. You have all seen what is going on here, you have seen extensive mining activities going on here with a lot of environmental degradation in the state.