The Kogi State House of Assembly has called for the immediate suspension of all coal mining activities in Omala Local Government Area following growing concerns over environmental degradation and public health risks allegedly caused by mining operations in the area.
The decision was reached during plenary on Wednesday after a motion of urgent public importance was moved by Hon. Yahaya Umar, the lawmaker representing Omala Constituency. He decried the severe pollution of rivers, destruction of farmlands, and contamination of water sources due to the unchecked activities of coal mining companies operating in the area.
According to Umar, companies such as Rockbottom Mines and Power and Mosra Enerji Ltd have discharged acidic coal waste and toxic heavy metals into the Alugbo River, a vital water source that serves numerous communities including Oloku, Otti, Icheke Ajedibo, Ikeffi, Oliya, and Abejukolo. He stressed that these environmental damages not only threaten human lives but also affect livestock, agriculture, and aquatic biodiversity.
He further lamented that despite being licensed under the Rural Electrification Strategy and Implementation Plan to contribute to national electricity generation, the companies have failed to deliver any measurable impact, leaving the host communities without electricity, clean water, or significant development benefits.
Lawmakers who supported the motion echoed similar sentiments. Hon. Jacob Olawumi representing Mopamuro described the situation as unfortunate, adding that Kogi State is suffering from the mismanagement of its natural resources.
The Vice Chairman of the House Committee on Solid Minerals, Hon. Abu Onoru-Oiza Jibrin, said the matter was disturbing, especially because it affects human and animal lives, and accused the companies of prioritizing profit over the wellbeing of the people. He emphasized the need to stop mining activities until lasting solutions are provided.
In his remarks, Hon. Idrees Aliyu Maikudi representing Kogi Koton Karfe blamed some traditional rulers for colluding with miners by granting them illegal access to lands, warning that such practices must end. Hon. Yusuf Zakari from Okene II also suggested the enactment of laws to restrict the sale of land to firms with minimal resources or commitment.
Presiding over the session, the Deputy Speaker described the matter as a serious governance issue and warned mining companies across Kogi State to stop neglecting their social responsibilities.
She pointed out that environmental degradation was not unique to Omala but widespread in Ankpa, Ijumu, Ajaokuta, and other parts of the state. She called for proactive steps to be taken before further damage is done to the environment and the people. She emphasized that mining companies must implement enforceable Community Development Agreements and fulfill their corporate social responsibility obligations in line with global best practices.
In response to the motion, the House mandated the Kogi State Ministry of Solid Minerals to carry out a compliance audit of all mining operations in the state to ensure adherence to national environmental and mining guidelines. It also urged the state government to provide immediate alternative sources of clean water to affected communities.
To strengthen oversight further, the Deputy Speaker constituted a five-member Ad-hoc Committee to investigate the activities of coal mining companies in the affected areas and report back to the house within two weeks.
