The Abia State Government has ordered all dredging operators and sand miners operating in Umuigwe, Isiala Okpu and Uratta communities in Osisioma Local Government Area to cease operations and vacate the area with immediate effect.
The Commissioner for Environment, Mr. Philemon Ogbonna, gave the directive during a meeting with representatives of dredging and sand mining operators at his office in Umuahia.
In a statement issued to newsmen on Tuesday by the Public Relations Officer of the Ministry, Mrs. Obioma Chidinma Success, the Commissioner explained that the Aba Master Plan has designated the affected areas as a tourism and recreational zone. He said that in line with the State Government’s urban development agenda, continued dredging and sand mining activities in the area can no longer be permitted.
He further noted that the administration of Governor Alex Chioma Otti, OFR, is committed to the comprehensive development and expansion of Aba, including the construction of alternative access roads into the commercial city beyond the Aba–Owerri Road. According to him, these strategic infrastructure projects require proper planning, development and preservation of the surrounding environment.
Ogbonna therefore urged the operators to cooperate with the Government in its efforts to transform Aba into a modern and sustainable city. He also appealed to those present to communicate the Government’s directive to other operators who were unable to attend the meeting.
Responding to a question by one of the sand miners, Hon. Francis Ngozi Nwankpa, the Commissioner assured that anyone with valid documents establishing land ownership would be treated in accordance with the law and, where applicable, receive adequate compensation.
In his vote of thanks, Chief Chimobi Nwankpa expressed appreciation to the Commissioner for the engagement. He acknowledged that although the directive might be difficult for the affected operators, they would comply with the Government’s instruction in the interest of the development of Aba and Abia State.
The Permanent Secretary of the Ministry, Mr. Ikechukwu Chidozie Oriuwa, Heads of the Departments of Environmental Assessment, Climate Change, Pollution Control and Environmental Health, Scrap and Metals, and other senior officials of the Ministry were present at the meeting.
