Imo State Government Imposes Total Ban on Mining and Dredging in Owerri

The Imo State Government has announced an immediate and total ban on all forms of mining and dredging activities within the Owerri Capital Territory, citing severe environmental degradation caused by years of unregulated sand mining.

The decision was made public by the Commissioner for Industry, Mines and Solid Minerals, Ernest Ibejiako, during a meeting with key stakeholders in the mining and dredging sector held in Owerri.

According to Ibejiako, uncontrolled mining activities have led to massive flooding, soil erosion, and the collapse of critical infrastructure across the city. He emphasized that the state government could no longer tolerate the environmental destruction caused by illegal and unmonitored operations.

“Enough is enough. The government and the good people of Imo State can no longer fold their arms and watch the indiscriminate devastation of our capital territory,” the commissioner declared.

He further stressed that no responsible government would allow its environment to deteriorate to such an alarming extent, adding that the move was necessary to protect lives, properties, and the ecosystem within the capital territory.

The ban has received mixed reactions from residents and business owners, with many commending the government’s decision as a bold step toward restoring environmental stability in Owerri, while others expressed concerns over the economic implications for those involved in the mining sector.