A new report by the Community Development Advocacy Foundation (CODAF) has unveiled disturbing levels of human rights violations and environmental degradation allegedly perpetrated by Chinese and indigenous mining companies in Ezillo and Ikwo communities of Ebonyi State.
The report, titled “Mining Practices in Ezillo and Ikwo Communities of Ebonyi State: An Environmental Time Bomb,” was launched during a global briefing jointly hosted by the Environmental Defenders Network (EDEN), Renevelyn Development Initiative (RDI), and the Africa Just Transition Network (AJTN). The event drew over 60 participants, including legal practitioners, grassroots activists, and journalists.
Field investigations across four affected communities revealed a complete lack of Environmental and Social Impact Assessments (ESIA)—a legal requirement under Nigerian law. The report also documented how mining companies bypassed due process by signing unauthorized agreements with local elites while excluding the broader community from any form of consultation or benefit.
The report further revealed that state security forces are being used to intimidate residents who challenge or question the activities of the mining companies. Community members who speak out are reportedly harassed, further silencing dissent and undermining democratic engagement.
Speaking at the launch, Ciza Mukabaha, Assistant Coordinator of AJTN, stated that the report shows blatant disregard for national and international legal frameworks.
“Communities are facing land grabbing, pollution, intimidation, and broken development promises. They deserve justice, compensation, and thorough environmental remediation,” Mukabaha noted.
According to the report, residents now grapple with severe air and water pollution, infertile soil, reduced crop yields, and rising respiratory illnesses. Youth migration, economic collapse, and the marginalization of vulnerable groups—including women, young people, and persons with disabilities—are among the dire consequences documented.
Chima Williams, Executive Director of EDEN, condemned what he described as “structured impunity,” urging “class action lawsuits and community-led litigation must be deployed to hold violators accountable and secure redress for the victims.”
Philip Jakpor, Executive Director of RDI, called on the media to play a more active role in exposing environmental injustices:
“Silence in the face of these violations is as dangerous as the pollution itself. Journalists must amplify community voices and challenge the narrative of impunity.”
CODAF urged the Nigerian government and relevant authorities to take immediate action. Key recommendations include: independent environmental audits and post-impact assessments; fair and inclusive compensation schemes aligned with global standards such as the World Bank’s OP 4.12; genuine community engagement involving women, youth, and marginalized groups.
The implementation of resettlement and livelihood restoration plans as well as the strict enforcement of environmental laws based on Nigerian and international protocols, including the African Development Bank (ADB) Safeguard Policy were also recommended.
Benin Richard, Executive Director of CODAF, said the investigations were triggered by alarming complaints from communities, noting that many of the mining activities were undocumented and unregulated.
Maimoni Ubrei-Joe, Director of Campaigns and Administration at CODAF, stated that the report is not just about outrage but a call to action.
“The people of Ezillo and Ikwo deserve justice, dignity, and a safe environment,” Ubrei-Joe added.
The report adds to a growing body of evidence pointing to systemic environmental and human rights abuses in Nigeria’s extractive industries, with watchdogs demanding accountability, transparency, and community-centered development.