By Nkechinyere Ewa
Residents of Okpanku community in Aninri Local Government Area of Enugu State have expressed deep concern over alleged contamination of their primary water source, the Ivo River, accusing three mining firms operating in neighbouring Ebonyi State of threatening their health and means of livelihood.
The situation has sparked growing anxiety over environmental safety and public health, with stakeholders urging an independent probe to determine the actual condition of the river and assess the effects of mining activities in the area.
The President-General of Okpanku, Ajah Kanayochukwu Charles, a former Commissioner for Water Resources in Enugu State, raised the alarm while speaking on the environmental and health implications of mining operations.
He noted that the community, made up of seven villages—Okpu, Ihuibe, Amabiriba, Amagu, Amaogudu, Ihuezoke, and Amaeze—relies entirely on the Ivo River for drinking water, household needs, fishing, and agriculture.
Ajah explained that the river, which flows from Ishiagu through Ihuetutu and adjoining areas in Ivo Local Government Area of Ebonyi State, has allegedly been polluted by activities of Greenfield Nigeria Limited, Ambratone Nigeria Limited, and Arab Contractors Nigeria Limited.
“Our people depend solely on this river as their only year-round water source. Sadly, it is now under threat from mining operations, with serious consequences for the community,” he said.
Leveraging his experience in water resources and environmental engineering, Ajah alleged that harmful substances, including possible heavy metals, are being discharged into the river, posing significant health dangers.
“We have recorded strange illnesses and fatalities. While we await a proper environmental assessment, I am convinced these substances are dangerous. Lives are being lost,” he added.
He further claimed that between 30 and 40 deaths have occurred in the past two years under circumstances he suspects may be connected to the water source, adding that previous appeals to the companies have not received attention.
Ajah called on the Ebonyi State Commissioner of Police and other relevant authorities to step in, urging them to ensure the companies halt any harmful practices and safeguard the affected communities.
“We need urgent intervention. The pollution must stop so our people can survive. We are open to dialogue and peaceful resolution, but swift action is critical,” he said.
In response, one of the companies mentioned, Greenfield Nigeria Limited, rejected the allegations, maintaining that its operations adhere strictly to environmental standards.
Speaking for the firm, Mr. Henry Ahanotu described the claims as baseless and challenged those making the accusations to present credible evidence.
“Our company is not polluting any environment. We operate fully within the framework of mining regulations set by the Federal Ministry of Mineral Development,” he said.
Ahanotu added that the company is regularly monitored by the National Environmental Standards and Regulations Enforcement Agency (NESREA), noting that compliance inspections are carried out frequently.
“NESREA conducts routine checks—sometimes on a monthly basis—and we have consistently met the required environmental standards,” he stated.
He also alleged that certain individuals were attempting to damage the company’s reputation for personal reasons, warning that legal action could be taken if the claims persist.
“If these allegations continue without proof, we will not hesitate to seek legal redress. Our operations are open for verification; we have nothing to conceal,” Ahanotu said.