By Maria Nwite, Abakaliki
Residents of Okpanku community in Aninri Local Government Area of Enugu State have raised alarm over alleged pollution of their only source of water, the Ivo River, accusing three mining companies operating in neighbouring Ebonyi State of threatening lives and livelihoods.
The development has heightened concerns over environmental safety and public health, with stakeholders calling for an independent investigation to determine the true condition of the river and the impact of mining activities in the area.
President-General of Okpanku, Engr. Dr. Ajah Kanayochukwu Charles, a former Commissioner for Water Resources in Enugu State, made the allegation while addressing the environmental and health implications of mining in the area.
According to him, the community—comprising seven villages: Okpu, Ihuibe, Amabiriba, Amagu, Amaogudu, Ihuezoke and Amaeze—relies solely on the Ivo River for drinking, domestic use, fishing and farming.
He explained that the river, which flows from Ishiagu through Ihuetutu and surrounding areas in Ivo Local Government Area of Ebonyi State, has allegedly been contaminated by mining activities of Greenfield Nigeria Limited, Ambratone Nigeria Limited and Arab Contractors Nigeria Limited.
“Our community depends entirely on this river. It is the only perennial source of water we have. Unfortunately, it is now being polluted by mining activities, and the consequences are devastating,” Ajah said.
Drawing from his background in water resources and environmental engineering, he alleged that toxic substances, possibly heavy metals, are being discharged into the river, posing serious health risks.
“We have observed unusual illnesses and deaths. While I won’t pre-empt the outcome of an environmental impact assessment, I can confidently say these substances are hazardous. Our people are dying,” he added.
Ajah claimed that between 30 and 40 persons have died in the past two years under circumstances he believes may be linked to the polluted water source, noting that repeated appeals to the companies have yielded no response.
He called on the Ebonyi State Commissioner of Police and other relevant authorities to intervene and compel the companies to halt further pollution while safeguarding affected communities.
“We are asking for urgent intervention. Let them stop polluting the river so our people can live. We are open to dialogue, including alternative dispute resolution, but immediate action is necessary,” he said.
However, one of the accused firms, Greenfield Nigeria Limited, denied the allegations, insisting its operations comply with environmental regulations.
Speaking for the company, Mr. Henry Ahanotu described the claims as unfounded and challenged accusers to provide verifiable evidence.
“We are not polluting any environment. Our operations strictly follow stipulated mining laws as regulated by the Federal Ministry of Mines and Steel Development,” he said.
Ahanotu added that the company undergoes regular inspections by the National Environmental Standards and Regulations Enforcement Agency (NESREA), noting that compliance checks are conducted frequently.
“NESREA inspects our operations regularly, sometimes monthly, to ensure compliance with environmental standards, and we have consistently met those requirements,” he stated.
He also alleged attempts by some individuals to tarnish the company’s image and warned that the firm may seek legal redress over what it described as defamatory claims.
“If these unverified allegations persist, we will pursue legal action. Everyone is free to verify our operations. We have nothing to hide,” he said.