CODAF Launches Explosive Report on Mining in Ebonyi State: “An Environmental Time Bomb”

Mining Practices in Ezillo and Ikwo Communities of Ebonyi State: An Environmental Time Bomb,” exposing egregious human rights violations and environmental degradation by Chinese and indigenous mining companies operating in Ebonyi State, Nigeria

The Community Development Advocacy Foundation (CODAF) has launched a damning report titled “Mining Practices in Ezillo and Ikwo Communities of Ebonyi State: An Environmental Time Bomb,” exposing egregious human rights violations and environmental degradation by Chinese and indigenous mining companies operating in Ebonyi State, Nigeria. This event which was facilitated by Benin Richard, the Executive Director of CODAF was jointly organised by the Environmental Defenders Network (EDEN), Renevelyn Development Initiative (RDI) and Africa Just Transition Network (AJTN)

Unveiled at a global virtual launch event attended by over 60 participants—including legal experts, grassroots organizers, and media professionals—the report paints a disturbing picture of communities plagued by pollution, land grabbing, and systemic neglect.

Earlier, the Assistant Coordinator of the Africa Just Transition Network (AJTN), Ciza Mukabaha in his goodwill message, stressed that the findings from the report revealed a wilful non-compliance with national and international legal frameworks, highlighting the devastating impact of pollution, land grabbing, intimidation, and the failure of companies to fulfill community development agreements. These communities deserve justice, compensation, and comprehensive remediation of the damages caused.

“The stories from Ezillo and Ikwo reflect a broader struggle of rural communities across Africa,” said Mercia Andrews of the Rural Women Assembly (South Africa). “Organizing women and affected people into strong, informed movements is key to reclaiming our land, rights, and future.”

Field investigations conducted across four communities revealed the total absence of Environmental and Social Impact Assessments (ESIA), a legal requirement under Nigerian law. Mining companies bypassed due process, signing non-legislative agreements with local elites while excluding broader community participation.

“What we see in this report is not just negligence—it is structured impunity,” said Chima Williams, Executive Director of the Environmental Defenders Network (EDEN). “Legal strategies, including class action lawsuits and community litigation, are necessary tools to hold violators accountable and secure justice.”

Communities now face severe air and water pollution, infertile soils, declining crop yields, respiratory illnesses, and disrupted livelihoods. Vulnerable groups—especially women, youth, and persons with disabilities—have been entirely excluded from compensation processes and decision-making structures. Meanwhile, state security forces are reportedly used to intimidate community members who resist or speak out.

“Media must rise to its responsibility of amplifying community voices and exposing environmental injustices,” said Philip Jakpor, Director at Renevelyn Development Initiative. “Silence and under-reporting are as dangerous as the pollution itself.”

Key Findings:

• No environmental audits or proper ESIA prior to mining activities.
• Massive land degradation, pollution, and destruction of livelihoods.
• Discriminatory compensation schemes benefiting local elites.
• Use of military/police to suppress dissent.
• Loss of youth and skilled population due to economic collapse.

CODAF’s Key Recommendations:

1. Conduct Independent Environmental Audits:
   Immediate post-impact assessments to quantify damage and guide restoration.
2. Ensure Fair and Inclusive Compensation:
   Align compensation with international standards such as the World Bank’s OP 4.12.
3. Inclusive Community Engagement:
   Ensure women, youth, and marginalized groups are actively involved in all negotiations and agreements.
4. Implement Resettlement and Livelihood Programs:
   Where displacement is inevitable, provide secure housing and livelihood alternatives.
5. Enforce Environmental Laws:
   Government regulators must uphold Nigerian and international frameworks including the ADB Safeguard Policy.

“We hope this report ignites not only outrage but also action,” said Maimoni Ubrei-Joe, Director of Campaigns and Administration at CODAF. “The people of Ezillo and Ikwo deserve justice, dignity, and a healthy environment to call home.”