The member representing Enugu North and South Federal Constituency, Rep. Chimaobi Atu, has advocated for stronger safety and regulatory measures to safe-guard mining activities in communities.
Rep. Atu said this when he visited Aja-Agu Community in Coal Camp, Enugu on Wednesday, following the death of a resident in an abandoned old coal mining site.
A resident of Aja-Agu Community in Coal Camp, Mr Ifeanyichukwu Asonye, reportedly drowned at at an old coal mining site on Sunday evening in the community.
The lawmaker noted that the incident has renewed concerns over the safety of residents, particularly young people, around abandoned and old mining sites across communities in the country.
Rep. Atu, who inspected the scene of the incident and interacted with residents and community leaders, sympathised with the bereaved family. He urged residents to exercise caution when visiting abandoned mining locations.
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The lawmaker commended the Enugu State government and the Chairman of Enugu North Local Government Area, Ibenaku Onoh, for their prompt intervention, which facilitated the recovery of the remains of the deceased.
He said the unfortunate incident underscores the need for stronger safety measures and regulatory attention around abandoned mining sites and mining communities.
The lawmaker also recalled that he has sponsored a bill in the House of Representatives seeking to repeal the Nigeria Coal Corporation Act.
He said that the repeal of the Nigeria Coal Corporation Act, is aimed at modernising the legal framework governing coal and mining activities and strengthening regulation within the sector.
“The proposed legislative reform, among other considerations, seeks to promote improved safety standards for communities located around mining areas, while creating a more contemporary legal framework capable of supporting responsible mining development.
“It is widely believed that properly regulated coal mining has the potential to contribute significantly to job creation and economic development in Enugu State,” he said.
He, however, stressed that such economic development must not compromise human safety, environmental protection and the well-being of host communities.
The latest incident, he noted, further highlights the importance of addressing safety challenges associated with abandoned mining sites and ensuring that communities affected by mining activities receive adequate protection.
Meanwhile, the President of the Coal Camp Youth Welfare Association, Emmanuel Umeadi, commended Rep. Atu for his prompt response to the incident and his continued support for the community.
Also, the Councillor representing Ogbete West Ward 6, Mr. Chukwuemeka Udom, praised the lawmaker for his consistent commitment to the people of Coal Camp.
Udom described the lawmaker’s visit as another demonstration of his willingness to stand with the community, particularly in times of need.
He appreciated Rep. Atu for identifying with the residents and the bereaved family, noting that his continued presence and interventions had strengthened his relationship with the people of the community.
