The True Cost of Mining: Exploring the Environmental Challenges and Consequences

The True Cost of Mining: Exploring the Environmental Challenges and Consequences”

By: SAMPSON UHUEGBU

What began as a modest, community-driven practice meant to support local construction and sustain livelihoods has morphed into one of the most severe environmental and socio-political crises facing Imo State today. Sand mining—once a carefully managed activity involving manual labor and traditional boat-diving—has now spiraled into a mechanized industry, threatening the very lifeblood of the region: its rivers, farmlands, wetlands, and people.

Historically, sand mining in Imo State reflected values of sustainability and community enterprise. Villagers manually dug sand or used boat-diving techniques, ensuring that the activity maintained ecological balance. These traditional methods minimized riverbank erosion, protected aquatic biodiversity, and preserved watersheds that were critical to both agriculture and aquaculture.

However, in the last decade, this practice has been overtaken by a highly mechanized form of dredging driven by profit, political collusion, and regulatory failure. Dredging machines now operate with little to no environmental oversight—tearing through rivers, encroaching on farmlands, and obliterating previously protected green zones. The result is widespread environmental degradation, water pollution, and escalating conflict over land and resources.

What should be a regulated, environmentally conscious industry has devolved into an ungovernable crisis in Imo State. At the center of the state’s environmental degradation is unguarded and illegal sand mining, carried out by powerful actors emboldened by a mix of official complicity, political protection, and greed. The consequences are devastating: rivers have been gouged out, farmlands have vanished, and once-united communities now stand divided.

Despite having regulatory agencies in place – namely the Federal Ministry of Mines and Solid Minerals development, under the direct supervision of the Federal Mines Officers (FMO) in all the 36 states of the Federation and Abuja Federal Capital Territory, It appears that enforcement structures have struggled to perform their intended role effectively. Instead of consistently safeguarding the environment, there are growing concerns that some agencies may be turning a blind eye or even indirectly supporting certain operators who fail to comply with environmental regulations.

One of the central figure in this scandal is Mr. Uche Emeto,  widely known as Uche Mark Global His dredging activities at the Nwaorie River source in Egbeada have sparked a wave of community unrest. Uche Mark is accused of pitting indigenous groups against one another, exploiting their divisions to secure access to restricted areas. It  was gathered that his strategy includes the acquisition of plots near rivers under the guise of legal purchase, which he then uses as launching pads for illegal dredging.

The  most alarming episodes took place in Ohi, where land was illegally parceled out about three years ago allegedly in collision with some dark elements within the community. It took the intervention of public spirited individuals, concerned environmentalist and brave community leaders to stop the hatchet. In Egbeada, resistance reached a boiling point when a local confronted the miners at gunpoint, demanding they vacate the community. Notably, Egbeada and its environs have long been marked as non-dredgeable zones – designated over 12 years ago due to their ecological fragility. Yet, Uche Mark and his allies continue to defy this, putting infrastructure and livelihoods at severe risk.

Another instance is at Ihiagwa, where the operations of same  Uche Emeto and one Mr Okechukwu Osuji have  allegedly affected the ecosystem within the area.   Community members, speaking on condition of anonymity, describe a systematic destruction of the river by the said  miners. They noted that the process typically begins with manual excavation by hired youths until white sand is located, after which dredging machines are brought in. The river, once a vital source of sustenance for farmers and fishermen, has now been degraded down to the aquifers. Vegetation has disappeared, natural water pathways have been disrupted, and agricultural activities have come to a halt.

Despite being invited for questioning by the EFCC in the past, these renowned minners are  said to have continued their operations, allegedly under the protection of compromised government officials.

It’s worth recalling that this very site at Ihiagwa was shutdown for eight years during the administration of Governor Rochas Okorocha, only for dredgers to return during the tenure of Rt. Hon. Emeka Ihedioha. Similar patterns are now repeating under the current administration. Our investigation revealed that Governor Hope Uzodinma once allocated funds to a taskforce, led by the then Commissioner Hon. Dominic Egbe, to sanitize dredging hotspots. The taskforce reportedly seized equipments and sealed off illegal sites; however, the dredgers reappeared just weeks later, allegedly with the backing of politically connected enablers.

One particularly egregious incident occurred near the Deeper Life area, where illegal dredging weakened a government bridge. Rather than admit to the structural damage caused by mining, it was falsely attributed to erosion. Observers see this as part of a broader pattern of deception and propaganda designed to protect illegal operators at the expense of state infrastructure.

In Umuarim, Ohamadike, and Umuzirimokam, the scars of illegal mining are etched into the landscape. Once-fertile lands used for farming vegetables like ugwu and waterleaf are now wastelands. Local bridges have collapsed. Community water access points have been lost. It was said that these minners have expanded operations into previously restricted areas, particularly around Umuoma, Ochiaha, and the Ihiagwa waterfront. Farmers have been evicted, and their lands repurposed for dredging. Roads have disappeared, and community structures have been destroyed.

Speaking on condition of anonymity, some of the Indigenes disclosed that these miners now operate with such impunity that government officials are unable or unwilling to confront them. Any newly appointed official who attempts to enforce the law is reportedly met with intense pressure, bribe offers, and threats..

Within the Federal Ministry of Mines and Solid Minerals development, there are increasing reports of internal resistance. Some junior officers have allegedly been threatened or deliberately sidelined when attempting to enforce environmental regulations. This crisis has reportedly destabilized the Marine Society of Nigeria, Imo State Chapter, where a clique aligned with illegal miners is allegedly attempting to dominate internal leadership and suppress dissenting voices. Tensions often erupt whenever the union tries to promote environmental responsibility. According to reports, this group is now manipulating local narratives to turn communities against the government—spreading misinformation and encouraging resistance to state-led regulation.Our investigation further indicates that this clash of interests is a key factor undermining the effectiveness and leadership of the Miners Association of Nigeria, Imo State Chapter, as various actors seek to steer the Association in favor of their private agendas.

Recall that recently, the Governor, His Excellency, Dist. Sen. Hope Uzodinma banned mining activities within the Owerri Capital territory, but it was gathered that mining operations are still ongoing in the prohibited areas.

Reactions from Miners, Stakeholders and Government Agencies

I however made considerable efforts to reach out to miners both accused and affected by the recent ban. When contacted on phone, Mr. Uche Emeto confirmed that he operates as a miner in Egbeada, Ohio-Nwaorie. He acknowledged the state government’s ban on mining activities within the Owerri Capital Territory but clarified that their current operations at the site are limited to maintenance work, not active mining. He also mentioned that they are waiting for the dry season before resuming full operations at their designated site. However, Mr. Emeto declined to provide further details, citing security concerns and requesting a face-to-face interview instead.

Speaking with one of the leading miners in Owerri, Mr. Okechukwu Osuji, popularly known as Sima Dredging, described the recent ban on mining in the Owerri Capital Territory as a welcome development. However, urged the government to provide alternative and well-designated mining sites for operators to relocate to.

Mr. Osuji emphasized that millions of Imo State citizens depend on mining for their livelihood. He revealed that miners had asked the Commissioner for mining and Naturally Resources to specify areas to be shutdown but have received no clear answers. As a result, many operators are incurring significant financial losses due to halted operations.

“In some areas, we have spent over 30 million naira purchasing land. If these areas are suddenly shutdown without warning, how are we supposed to recover our investments?” he lamented. He called on the government to provide miners with a reasonable timeframe to plan and relocate, stating that abrupt closures unfairly impact those who have made legitimate investments.

According to him, lands acquired for mining purposes are typically purchased from local communities, which will not refund the money in the event of sudden shutdowns. He therefore advised that any enforcement should be phased and focused specifically on areas that negatively affect the ecosystem or lie within 50 to 100 meters of government infrastructure.

“Mining is a daily source of livelihood for many families. Sudden bans without alternatives could push some individuals into criminal activities out of desperation. Many of the sites targeted for closure have no nearby federal infrastructure like power lines or highways within a one-kilometer radius. Yet they are being shut down. This is unjust and could have devastating effects.  Areas like Aba-Road and Azaragbelu dredging sites  should be shutdown completely to avoid distrustion of government properties. I advised those operating in environmentally sensitive zones to begin relocating voluntarily and responsibly,” he reiterated.

Meanwhile, another prominent miner in the state, Mr. Ekemma Steven Ezem, who operates within the Obinze axis, also pointed out that the ban affects the entire Owerri Capital Territory, which includes Owerri Municipal, Owerri North, and Owerri West. He acknowledged the need to protect green areas within the city, especially around Poly-Nekede, Ihiagwa, and the Mechanic Village. However, emphasized that not all areas within Owerri -West are environmentally vulnerable. For example, zones around Obinze and the Umuazorakam-Nekede area are suitable for mining.

“I am against any mining activity that endangers the environment or government property. I warn that a blanket closure of the entire capital territory would significantly disrupt sand supply, which in turn would negatively affect building and construction projects in Owerri and beyond”.

He advised the government to conduct thorough site inspections to identify specific areas where mining can continue without causing environmental harm. He also stressed that while the Miners’ Association is trying its best, the competitive nature of the industry makes it difficult to fully regulate its members. Only the government, he said, has the authority and capacity to enforce mining laws and regulations effectively.

In the same vein, the Chairman Imo State Minerals Resources and environmental management Committee) MIREMCO, Dominic Mgbe stated thus;

“The ban on mining operations within the Owerri Capital Territory is not a recent development. It is neither a new law nor a newly created policy—it has been in place for the past four to five years. Unfortunately, many miners in Imo State have shown reluctance to align with government policies and directives. When the government designates certain areas as restricted, the logical questions should be: What has the government discovered to prompt such action? Are we experiencing environmental pollution? Are miners engaging in activities that degrade the environment or hinder the growth of the mining sector? Are they operating according to established guidelines? Because, indeed, there are mining laws in place”.

“It’s important to remember that while the state owns the land, the Federal Government holds the mining rights, as all natural resources beneath the ground belong to the Federation. Mining doesn’t take place in the air—it occurs on land, which is under the jurisdiction of the state. Therefore, there should be synergy and mutual understanding between all stakeholders, and agreements must be reached on how mining activities should be conducted”.

“One of the recurring issues we face is the presence of conflicting government directives. One directive might declare an area unminable, while another agency might contradict this by authorizing miners to return to the same site. As a result, it becomes unclear which directive to follow. The ban itself is not new. The real issue is the behavior of some of our people, who act like hoodlums—agboros. Give them a directive today, and they will find a way to sneak back in, cutting corners to return to sites where the environment is already being damaged”.

“As the Chairman of MIREMCO, I can never support environmental destruction. Instead, I advocate for peaceful and responsible mining operations. I have been actively involved in taskforces aimed at ensuring safe and lawful mining in Imo State. It hasn’t been easy—I faced criticism and resistance—but what matters most is doing the right thing. If you’re restricted from a site and you still insist on operating, you are engaging in illegal and unsafe mining”.

“Recall the incident at the Federal University of Technology, Owerri (FUTO), where a bridge collapsed due to mining activities. The then Minister of State for Mines and Steel Development, Dr. Uche Ogah, visited the site and gave me a marching order to arrest all miners operating in that area. It was a devastating scene.

Visit the market at Egbeada Akwuakuma and witness firsthand what mining has done to the environment. Erosion has taken over, and many buildings are collapsing. Across many locations in the Owerri Capital Territory, mining has caused visible degradation and damage, yet little is being said about how to rehabilitate the affected areas”.

“That said, miners are human beings with families to support. Anyone conducting their business legitimately should be allowed to operate—but in full compliance with the law. You do not punish Peter to pay Paul. In places like Nekede and Powerline, some miners were dangerously close to toppling electric poles, and when asked to vacate, they refused. Those who continue to mine without regard for the environment or human safety have no right to do business”.

“I want to specifically thank the Chairman of the Miners Association in Imo State for his efforts in educating members on responsible practices—despite the challenges and name-dropping within an association that includes people with diverse opinions.

Finally, I urge all stakeholders to adhere to environmental laws and maintain close consultation with host communities where mining takes place. Our agency will continue to ensure that no stakeholder in the mining industry is exploited or treated unfairly”, he submitted.

In a face to face interview with the Federal Mines Officers, Engr. Okandeji Idris however provided a detailed explanation regarding the regulation of mining activities in Nigeria, emphasizing the legal framework and the roles of various governmental bodies.

He expressed concerns over the approach taken by the state government in banning mining activities in the state capital.  He stated that government decisions should not be based solely on verbal declarations.  Instead, there are established legal procedures and communication channels to address such matters.

“According to the Nigerian Minerals and Mining Act of 2007, mining is primarily under the jurisdiction of the federal government, as it falls within the exclusive legislative list.  This means that the federal government has the authority to regulate and oversee mining operations, while state and local governments have limited roles.

If an illegal mining site is discovered, the appropriate procedure is to verify whether the operators possess a valid mining license issued by the federal Ministry of Mines and Steel Development, with documentation processed through the Abuja office.  Only the federal ministry has the authority to revoke licenses or halt operations in cases of non-compliance’.

Engr. Idris noted that the Mineral and Mining Act stipulates that no mining operation should occur within 50 meters of any public infrastructure, as outlined in Section 3, Subsection C of the Act.  Additionally, mining operators are required to conduct environmental audits and adhere to environmental obligations, which are periodically reviewed to ensure compliance.

“The Ministry of Mines and Steel Development is responsible for supervising mining activities and ensuring that operators adhere to environmental standards.  This includes monitoring the distance of mining operations from public infrastructure and assessing the environmental impact of mining activities”.

He added that in any case of  abnormalities in mining operations, it is the duty of

MIREMCO, established under Section 19(1) of the Nigerian Minerals and Mining Act, which serves as a liaison between the federal, state, and local governments, as well as host communities and mining operators.  The committee’s objectives include promoting sustainable development and ensuring that mining activities are conducted in an orderly and environmentally responsible manner.

He further stated that Mining operations contribute significantly to the local economy by providing employment opportunities.  “In some areas, each mining site employs over 3,000 workers.  Disrupting these operations without due process can lead to job losses and economic hardship for many families.

The state benefits from mining activities through the 13% derivation fund, which is allocated based on the revenue generated from solid minerals.  Any actions that impede mining operations can result in a loss of this vital revenue stream”, he reiterated.

Speaking with the Chairman, House Committee on Mining and Solid Minerals, Imo State House of Assembly, Hon. Kelechi Ofurum,  stated that since the Governor of Imo State, Distinguished Senator Hope Uzodinma, has declared a ban on certain mining activities, all stakeholders must comply with the directive. He disclosed that a committee will be established to monitor and regulate the activities of miners, particularly those who continue to return to restricted areas in violation of state laws and government directives.

He recalled that at one point, the committee had seized several illegal mining sites within the city. Now, he said, they are prepared to intensify efforts to ensure that such activities do not resume in those restricted zones. Hon. Ofurum further noted that a specific area has been designated for miners to operate legally. According to him, the Commissioner for Mines has identified and mapped out a suitable location towards Mgbirichi for this purpose.

He advised miners to remain calm, assuring them that the government’s intention is not to frustrate their businesses, but to ensure that mining activities are conducted in a safe and environmentally sustainable manner for the benefit and development of the capital territory. He emphasized the importance of adhering to government directives at all times.

In the same vein, Hon. Ernest Ibejiako, the Honorable Commissioner for Mines, Industry, and Solid Minerals in Imo State, has acknowledged the significant environmental degradation caused by unregulated mining activities in the state. He noted that previously, mining operations were largely disorganized, leading to the destruction of over 100 plots of land, particularly within the capital territory.

To address these issues, he noted that the state government has initiated a pilot program to establish a 25-kilometer mining bay outside the capital territory. “. The government is considering expanding this mining bay beyond the Mgbirichi area, with the Obinze axis identified as one of the most devastated regions. The destruction has affected local ecosystems and encroached upon lands belonging to the Federal University of Technology, Owerri (FUTO), leading to concerns about erosion and environmental sustainability.

Hon. Ibejiako emphasized the government’s commitment to protecting the environment and the health of residents in the Owerri Capital Territory. He acknowledged that some miners have been operating under the protection of influential individuals, complicating enforcement efforts,  while noting that government has  established a joint monitoring team to oversee mining activities within the capital territory and ensure compliance with regulations.

“The Ministry of Mines, Industry, and Solid Minerals is working to streamline operations by consolidating revenue collection and providing miners with access roads to facilitate their activities. Additionally, plans are underway to illuminate the mining bay, enabling operations to continue both day and night”. Hon. Ibejiako urged miners to cooperate with the government, assuring them that the administration is committed to addressing their challenges and creating a more organized and sustainable mining environment.

“The government is working hard to balance economic development with environmental conservation, ensuring that mining activities contribute positively to the state’s growth without compromising ecological integrity”.

Answering questions from the investigative team, the State Chairman of  Miners Association of Nigeria, Imo State Chapter, Prince Ugochukwu Onyenwenwa, decried the harsh conditions miners are currently facing in the state. He highlighted several pressing issues, including multiple taxation, poor road access to mining sites, lack of government support, unauthorized interventions by various agencies, and the absence of a clearly defined mining roadmap for Imo State.

On the internal challenges within the Association, the Chairman acknowledged that no organization is without disputes, especially when diverse interests are involved. He assured members that, together with his executive team, he is committed to addressing all complaints and suggestions fairly and on merit. He pledged to uphold the collective interests and resolutions of the Association, vowing never to succumb to blackmail or manipulation by any cartel or cabal.

The Chairman emphasized his commitment to continued engagement with all relevant stakeholders to uphold the highest industry standards, in full compliance with existing mining laws and regulations. He

congratulated the Hon. Commissioner for Mines, Industry, and Solid Minerals, Rt. Hon. Ernest Ibejiako, on his bold strides in advancing the mining sector in Imo State, while urging him to carry out his duties with a human-centered approach. He also appealed to the Commissioner to act swiftly on the development of a new mining bay to ease the burden on miners affected by the closure of certain areas. Additionally, he requested that the Commissioner consult with the Association and consider granting a grace period to affected miners—recognizing that relocation is both capital-intensive and time-consuming.

He further praised His Excellency, Distinguished Senator Hope Uzodimma, for the remarkable progress made under his 3R initiatives and declared the Association’s full support for the present administration.

Exploring the Value of Sand Mining

Despite these pathetic mining situations in the state, sand mining remains critically important for modern infrastructure and development. Sand which is a key ingredient in concrete,  is essential for building houses, bridges, schools, hospitals, and more. Asphalt used in road construction also depends on sand. Without it, road development and maintenance would grind to a halt.

Sand mining provides employment in both the formal and informal sectors, particularly in rural and semi-urban areas. It generates income for local governments through taxes, permits, and royalties, and supports related industries such as transportation, machinery, and construction.

Expanding cities and towns require vast quantities of sand for infrastructure development—including roads, flyovers, and drainage systems. Governments rely heavily on sand for public development projects like airports, dams, and railway tracks. Beyond construction, sand is also essential in several industrial processes.

However, sustainability is key. When left unregulated, sand mining can lead to severe consequences: riverbank erosion, habitat destruction, pollution, groundwater depletion, and socio-political conflicts over resource control. While sand mining is vital for construction and economic growth, it must be managed sustainably. The challenge for Imo State is to balance the economic benefits of sand mining with environmental protection and social responsibility—restoring oversight, enforcing regulations, and returning to principles that once prioritized long-term community welfare over short-term profit, as the stands on the precipice of an irreversible environmental disaster. If current trends continue, the state risks the permanent loss of its rivers, arable lands, and biodiversity – all for short-term economic gain and political convenience.

Recommendations

To address this growing crisis, it is pertinent to have  a comprehensive audit of all existing sand mining licenses.  Any licenses obtained under dubious circumstances or issued for operations in prohibited areas must be revoked. Oversight should be strengthened by adequately funding a special joint taskforce on illegal mining, operating under the direct supervision of the regulatory bodies specified by law, and including representatives from the Miners Association of Nigeria and environmental advocacy groups.

Furthermore, the state government should enact laws that criminalize mining-related bribery, illegal land acquisition, destruction of public infrastructure, and actions that threaten community safety.

In addition, a statewide public sensitization campaign should be launched to educate communities about their environmental rights, available legal recourse, and how to protect themselves against exploitation.

The desecration of Imo State’s rivers and lands in the name of sand mining is not just an environmental offense – it is a direct assault on the state’s future. It symbolizes the dangerous intersection of corruption, environmental neglect, and weak governance. Unless the government steps in with decisive, transparent, and sustained action, the damage may become irreversible.