The Abia State Government has approved the mining agreement between the Amanyanwu community in Imobi Autonomous Community, Achara Uturu, Isuikwuato Local Government Area, and Limel International Company Nigeria Ltd.
The Deputy Governor, Engr. Ikechukwu Emetu, disclosed this during the final resolution meeting on the Nkume Ajaba mining site, held at the Conference Room of the Office of the Deputy Governor in Umuahia.
Engr. Emetu stated that the approval followed extensive consultations, historical reviews, examination of documentary evidence, technical assessments, and independent reports on the ownership structure and contractual agreements relating to Nkume Ajaba.
He explained that the Amanyanwu community stands on established ownership claims and prior agreements, thereby maintaining its right to negotiation, while other component communities share the identity of one autonomous community. He stressed that issues of due process and inclusivity must not be overlooked in matters affecting communal interests.
The Deputy Governor further revealed that the Federal Government had already granted a five-year lease to Limel International Company Nigeria Ltd. He urged all parties to strictly comply with the final resolution, warning that the government would not tolerate any act of violence, obstruction, or intimidation capable of disturbing public order.
In his remarks, the Commissioner for Petroleum and Mineral Resources, Joel Ogbonna, stated that the approval takes immediate effect and is binding on all parties concerned.
He charged the mining company to adhere strictly to the terms and conditions of the duly executed communal agreement with the Amanyanwu community, as well as all applicable laws and resolutions, noting that any breach would attract appropriate administrative or legal sanctions.
Also speaking, the Director of Limel International Company Nigeria Ltd, Mr. Nomeh Joseph, thanked the state government for its leadership and assured that the company’s operations would promote skills transfer, stimulate development, and positively impact the host community.
Dignitaries present at the meeting included the Acting Surveyor General of the state, Mr. Ikechukwu Oriuwa; members of the State Boundary Committee; the traditional ruler of the Amanyanwu community, Simeon C. Chukwuma; women leaders; youths; and other stakeholders.
