Outcry in Enugu Community as Residents Allege River Contamination, Firm Denies Responsibility
Ewa Nkechinyere
Tension is mounting in Okpanku community, Aninri Local Government Area of Enugu State, as residents raise alarm over alleged pollution of the Ivo River, their primary source of water, by mining activities across the border in Ebonyi State.
The development has sparked growing concerns about environmental safety and public health, with community leaders and stakeholders demanding an independent probe to determine the extent of the damage and verify claims surrounding mining operations in the area.
President-General of Okpanku, Ajah Kanayochukwu Charles, who is also a former Commissioner for Water Resources in Enugu State, voiced the concerns while addressing residents. He alleged that the river has been contaminated by activities of three mining firms operating in neighbouring Ebonyi.
According to him, the community—made up of seven villages including Okpu, Ihuibe, Amabiriba, Amagu, Amaogudu, Ihuezoke, and Amaeze—relies entirely on the river for drinking, household needs, fishing, and agriculture.
He explained that the river flows from Ishiagu through Ihuetutu and surrounding communities in Ivo Local Government Area of Ebonyi State, and may have been exposed to pollutants from mining operations.
“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,” he said.
Drawing from his professional background, Ajah alleged that toxic substances, including possible heavy metals, are being discharged into the water, posing serious health risks.
“We have observed unusual illnesses and deaths. While I won’t pre-empt the outcome of an environmental assessment, I can confidently say these substances are hazardous. Our people are dying,” he added.
He claimed that between 30 and 40 deaths recorded in the community over the past two years could be linked to the suspected contamination, noting that appeals to the companies involved have not yielded results.
The community leader called on security agencies and regulatory authorities to intervene, urging them to halt further pollution and protect affected residents. He also expressed willingness for dialogue and alternative dispute resolution.
However, one of the companies mentioned, Greenfield Nigeria Limited, has denied the allegations, insisting that its operations comply with regulatory standards.
Speaking for the firm, Henry Ahanotu described the claims as baseless and challenged accusers to provide evidence.
“We are not polluting any environment. Our operations strictly follow stipulated mining laws as regulated by the Federal Ministry of Mineral Development,” he said.
He added that the company is subject to routine inspections by the National Environmental Standards and Regulations Enforcement Agency (NESREA), maintaining that it has consistently met required standards.
Ahanotu further alleged that the accusations may be driven by ulterior motives and warned that the company could pursue legal action if what it termed defamatory claims persist.
As concerns deepen, residents and observers say an independent environmental investigation will be critical to resolving the dispute and safeguarding public health in the affected communities.
