By Enyinna Omoke, Abakaliki
The Chairman of Ebonyi State House of Assembly Committee on Solid Mineral Development, Ifeanyi Nwakpu has condemned illegal and unsafe mining activities by Greenfield Metals Company in Ihetutu Community in Ivo Local Government Area and ordered for the immediate closure of the company for embarking on illegal under grounds mining activities.
Nwakpu who gave the order during oversight function visit to the company lamented that the activities of Greenfield Mining Company would lead to loss of lives and property of citizens of the state particularly in host community Ihetutu in Ivo Local Government Area.
He said the inability of the company to present all relevant documents guiding its activities including its Environmental Impact Assessment, Environmental impact Audit reports, Community Development Agreement and IGR Payment receipts adding that the company has failed to comply with the provisions of Mining Act.
Contributing, Abiri Godwin Abiri representing Izzi West Constituency and Hon Stephen Orji Igwe representing Edda East expressed concern over the operations of the company saying the company will remain sealed until they comply with the mining laws.
At the Arab Contractors Company, the Committee Chairman, Ifeanyi Nwakpu representing Ikwo North Constituency commended the company for keeping unto all the safety laws, presentation of relevant documents including regular payment of Its Internally Generated Revenue.
He urged the company to continue keeping to their responsibilities
Responding on behalf of the company, the Managing Director of Arab Contractors represented by the company Accountant Mr Kurotamuno Inioruton said that they have worked towards keeping to the mining laws and keep to the agreements with the hosting community.
He thanked the House Committee for the visit and appreciates the state government for the conducive atmosphere provided with security for mining companies to operate and urged the State Governor ,Francis Ogbonna Nwifuru to continue the good works as they are solidly behind his administration.
