By Newspot Nigeria News Desk
The Foundation for Environmental Rights Advocacy and Development (FENRAD) has strongly condemned the alleged illegal granite mining activities in Imobi Autonomous Community, Uturu, Isuikwuato Local Government Area of Abia State, calling for the immediate intervention of the Abia State Government.
In a statement issued on Wednesday, January 22, 2026, in Umuahia, the environmental advocacy organisation expressed deep concern over reports that quarrying activities were being initiated in the community without due process, community-wide consent, or compliance with statutory environmental requirements.
FENRAD stated that the alleged mining operation was reportedly commenced without a valid Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA) or a Community Development Agreement (CDA), both of which are mandatory under Nigerian environmental and mining laws.
Alleged Community Exclusion
According to the organisation, information available to it indicates that a small group of individuals allegedly signed consent documents and registered a mining company without the knowledge or approval of the larger Imobi Autonomous Community, which comprises Amaedi, Amanyanwu, and Onuzo villages.
The group referenced placards displayed during a peaceful protest by women of the community, which read:
- “The consent letter was signed by improper persons and should be forfeited.”
- “No community development agreement, no quarry operations.”
- “Lime I International Nigeria Ltd is not known to our community.”
FENRAD said the protest highlights serious concerns about transparency, legitimacy, and adherence to legal procedures in extractive operations.
Environmental and Health Concerns
The organisation warned that granite quarrying, if carried out without strict environmental safeguards, could expose the community to severe environmental and public health risks.
These risks include land degradation, destruction of farmlands, pollution of surface and groundwater sources, air pollution from dust particles capable of causing respiratory illnesses, excessive noise and vibration, loss of biodiversity, and increased safety hazards from blasting activities and abandoned quarry pits.
FENRAD noted that rural communities such as Imobi, which rely heavily on agriculture and natural water sources, remain particularly vulnerable to these environmental impacts.
Traditional Institution Raises Alarm
The advocacy group further disclosed that the traditional ruler of Imobi Autonomous Community, His Royal Highness Eze Simeon Chimezie Chukwuemeka (Imobi IV), through the community’s Secretary General, reportedly stated that the alleged consent for the mining activity was obtained without the knowledge or approval of the traditional institution or the wider community.
FENRAD said this revelation further strengthens the need for urgent government scrutiny.
Calls for Immediate Government Action
In line with its mandate on environmental justice and community rights, FENRAD called on Governor Alex Otti and the Abia State Government to immediately suspend all quarry-related activities in Imobi Community pending a full investigation.
The organisation also urged the Abia State Ministry of Environment and relevant regulatory agencies to verify the legality of all permits, consent documents, and company registrations associated with the proposed quarry.
It further demanded a transparent and inclusive consultation process, the conduct of an independent Environmental Impact Assessment, and the protection of the community from environmental degradation, livelihood loss, and social conflict.
Commitment to Environmental Justice
FENRAD commended the women of Imobi Autonomous Community for what it described as a peaceful and courageous stand in defence of their environment and future generations.
The organisation stressed that development must not come at the expense of environmental sustainability, community rights, and the rule of law, adding that it would continue to monitor developments and provide advocacy and legal support where necessary.
The statement was signed by the Executive Director of FENRAD, Comrade Nelson Nnanna Nwafor.
Newspot Nigeria reports that the matter has continued to generate concern among residents and civil society groups, with calls mounting for transparent regulation of extractive activities across Abia State.
