Nasarawa govt orders mining company to vacate site over alleged violations

The Nasarawa State Government has ordered the immediate shutdown and evacuation of Lideal Mines Company from Endo Community in the Udege Development Area over alleged security concerns and operational violations.

The Commissioner for Environment and Natural Resources, Margaret Elayo, announced the directive during a press briefing in Lafia on Monday, accusing the mining firm of repeatedly breaching agreements reached with the host community and failing to comply with government directives.

Elayo disclosed that the company had earlier been sanctioned for several operational infractions before challenging the government’s action in court.

She, however, noted that the Federal High Court in Lafia upheld the state government’s counter-motion, paving the way for enforcement of the latest directive.

According to the commissioner, the government, after consultations with stakeholders, security agencies and community leaders, resolved that the company must immediately begin the evacuation of all equipment, trucks, machinery, operational facilities and personnel from the mining site.

She explained that the decision was part of efforts by the state government to ensure lawful mining operations, maintain peace in host communities and enforce compliance with regulations guiding the extractive sector.

“Following engagements with relevant stakeholders and security reports surrounding mining activities within the affected area, the government has directed the company to commence the immediate evacuation of all operational facilities and personnel from the site,” Elayo stated.

She added that the company would be given a specific timeframe to complete the withdrawal process in line with the government’s directive.

The commissioner said the action aligns with ongoing reforms introduced by Governor Abdullahi Sule to reposition the mining sector for improved economic benefits to host communities and the state.

According to her, the governor has consistently insisted that investors in the mining sector must establish functional processing facilities capable of creating jobs and boosting local economic development.

Elayo further revealed that security operatives would be deployed to the affected mining site to ensure compliance and prevent unauthorised activities.

“The deployment will involve relevant security agencies tasked with maintaining law and order as well as protecting government interests within the affected area,” she added.

She reaffirmed the state government’s commitment to supporting genuine investors while insisting that all operators must comply strictly with the laws, policies and developmental objectives of Nasarawa State.

The commissioner also urged mining companies and host communities to remain peaceful and cooperate with ongoing reforms aimed at sanitising the mining sector and promoting responsible mining practices across the state.