All types of mining and dredging operations within the Owerri Capital Territory are immediately and completely prohibited, according to the Imo State Government.  

The state authorities pointed to extensive environmental damage brought on by unregulated sand mining.  

Ernest Ibejiako, the Commissioner for Industry, Mines, and Solid Minerals, made the announcement at a meeting with pertinent mining and dredging industry stakeholders in Owerri.  

According to him, the decision came after years of unchecked mining that had caused the city's vital infrastructure to crumble, cause deadly floods, and erode the land.

“Enough is enough, the government and good people of Imo State can no longer fold their arms and watch the indiscriminate devastation of our capital territory.

“No responsible government will sit back and allow her environment to be degraded to the point of collapse, ”Ibejiako said.

Source