The Edo State Government has reiterated its commitment to safeguarding the welfare of Host Communities to Mining businesses with particular reference to Ikpeshi in Akoko-Edo Local Government Area of the State.
The Commissioner for Mining, Hon. Andrew Ijegbai, who gave assurances of Governor Monday Okpebholo’s commitment to ensuring the welfare of the communities during an inspection tour of Mining sites in Edo North, also embarked on a courtesy visit to the Royal Father of Ikpeshi Community, His Royal Highness, Rev. Nicholas Odamah.
He emphasized that the present administration would not condone any Mining Company that exploits the State’s mineral resources without fulfilling its obligations to Host Communities, noting that several companies had failed to honour Community Development Agreements (CDAs).
“As an indigene of Edo North, I will not fold my arms and watch our people suffer while companies enrich themselves. The Governor has mandated us to ensure that communities benefit fully from Mining activities. Any company that refuses to comply with the law and its CDA commitment will face sanctions”. The Commissioner stated.
Hon. Ijegbai disclosed that the inspection of one of the Mining Sites belonging to Flourish Mining Company in Ikpeshi, had led to the invitation of the said Company to present all necessary documents for vetting and scrutiny by the Ministry of Mining in order to clear alleged illegal operations and avoidance of CDA agreements, urging the Royal Father to attend or nominate representatives of the Community to attend the scheduled meeting, as this would guarantee transparency and fairness to all stakeholders.
The Commissioner further assured the Royal Father and the Community leaders that the welfare of Host Communities remains a top priority for the Sen. Okpebholo-led administration, reaffirming the Government’s resolve to stamp out illegal mining, restore order in the Sector and strengthen relations between Host Communities and the State Government.
“We will not allow any company to short-change our people. This is just the beginning of a new partnership with Ikpeshi and other Mining Communities across Edo State”. He declared.
Responding, His Royal Highness Rev. Odamah appreciated the Commissioner and lauded the State Governor for taking proactive measures to protect Host Communities to Mining businesses, while raising concerns over environmental pollution and poor road conditions caused by Mining activities.
He further stressed that, as a scientist, he was deeply worried about the health risks faced by his people.
“We have suffered a lot from pollution and neglect. The companies show little or no regard for the wellbeing of our people. I appeal to you not to relent in addressing these issues”. He stated.
On his part, the Secretary to the Council of Elders of Ikpeshi, Mr. John Segun Joseph lamented that Mining Companies in the Community had blatantly disregarded invitations for dialogue on CDA agreements and care for health challenges, while the Community Youth Leader Mr. Ali Omego, decried the absence of tangible benefits from Mining activities in the Community.
In a closing remark, Mr. Omego thanked the State Government for its resolve to working with the people of Edo and hoped that it would be a continuous practice.
The engagement is a testament to Edo State Government’s unwavering commitment to promoting safe and responsible Mining practices, while protecting the health, environment and integrity of residents in Host Communities of Mining activities.
Grace Oakhiena
Public Relations Officer
Ministry of Mining
PHOTO CAPTION
4th Right: The Commissioner for Mining, Hon Andrew Ijegbai; 3rd Right: the
Director of Mining, Mr. Ihianle Omoruyi; 4th Left: the Royal Father of Ikpeshi, Rev. Nicholas Odamah; 3rd Left: the Director of Risk Management Compliance, Engr. Daniel Agboge; 2nd Left: the
Youth Leader of Ikpeshi, Mr. Ali Omego and other stakeholders during the Commissioner’s visit to Rev. Odamah in Ikpeshi Community.
