The people of Amba and Agaza communities of Kokona local government area in Nasarawa State have issued an ultimatum to a mining company, Timadex Geomin Consult Limited, for allegedly operating illegally in the area.
A letter signed by the overseer of Agwada development area, Adamu Agye, the OSU Agwada, Abubakar S. Obagu and Mr Martins Kure Abashi, Sangarin Amba as well as other traditional and youth leaders from the areas, alleged that the activities of Timadex Geomin Consult and others were inimical to the peace and development of the area.
Our correspondent reports that both Amba and Gaza have huge lithium deposits that have been attracting miners to area.
The letter said that upon noticing the company’s alleged questionable activities, the leaders from the area alerted the state government, which sent a delegation to assess the matter.
It said that instead of exiting the area or taking the necessary action by legalising its operations, Timadex Geomin Consult resorted to blackmailing the community leaders and the state government through the media.
“While we are not against any indigenous mining company to obtain consent to operate in our Land, we resolved that such company must have unquestionable mining history and capacity to operate. We therefore urge the Minister of Solid Minerals Development, the D.G Cadastral office and the governor of Nasarawa State to ensure that only reputable mining companies with requisite capacity either local or foreign, are given license,” it stated.
It noted that while no government would not welcome the progress of its citizens, it would also not tolerate any action that undermines the security of its people.
“We view the action of Governor Abdullahi Sule in ensuring well-coordinated and productive mining activities devoid of insecurity and threat to lives of the people of our communities as good intention and the right action any responsible government should take, considering the devastating consequences that come with mining activities.
“We want to draw the attention of Timadex Geomin Consult that the communities, i e Amba and Agwada are fully behind the Chinese companies (Black Stone New Energy limited and Black Gem New Energy Limited) contrary to the claim by Timadex Geomin Consult that the natives are crying foul that their land is being sold without their consent.
“We want to categorically state that any attempt by individuals or groups of individuals to bring or support the activities of illegal miners to these communities will be strictly resisted,” they added.