Miners/Community dispute: Gov Bello intervenes, urges calm, peaceful business environment
IDRIS AHMED, LOKOJA.
Kogi state Governor, Alhaji Yahaya Bello, has appealed to the residents of Okobo-Enjema community in Ankpa Local Government Area of the state to live in peace with the investors engaged in mining activities.
Recently conflict erupted between a Coal mining company, Eta- Zuma Group (WA) and the Okobo-Enjema Community over the legality or otherwise of exploitation of the coal deposit in the area, leading to the government suspending activities at the sites.
A press release signed by the Chief Press Secretary to the Governor, Onogwu Mohammed, the state Governor, Alhaji Yahaya Bello, has appealed to the Okobo-Enjema Community to maintain peace and tranquility with the Eta-Zuma Group (W/A) Limited, to enable conducive business environment.
According to Onogwu, the Governor has expressed his commitment to finding a comprehensive and lasting solution to the disagreement between mining corporations and host communities within Kogi State.
He disclosed that the Governor made the appeal during a meeting in his office in Lokoja on Thursday, with Dr. Innocent O. Ezuma , the Chief Executive Officer of Eta-Zuma, the Chairman of Ankpa Local Government Council, the representatives of the Community and other top government officials.
Governor Bello reiterated the commitment of the government to ensure and secure conducive business environment for both the residents and potential investors that are keen on venturing into the state.
He asserted that his administration is dedicated to safeguarding investments across the state and working hard to ensure that the rights and privileges of host communities are guaranteed and protected
The Governor highlighted the objective of transforming Kogi State into an attractive destination for investors, which can be achieved through the establishment of an enabling business environment.
He therefore admonished the parties to the dispute to adherence strictly to the agreement reached with relevant agencies and host communities, along with fulfilling social responsibilities.
While commending the people of the area for their non violent approach in addressing the issue, the Governor directed and permitted Eta-Zuma Group (W/A) Limited to resume operations at their site as the resolution process continues.
In a related development, Kogi state Commissioner for Solid Minerals and Natural Resources, Engnr Abubakar Bashir Gegu, has commended the Governor, Alhaji Yahaya Bello, over his determination to ensure enabling business environment in Kogi state.
Reacting to the peaceful resolution of the host communities and some coal mining companies in the state, Engnr Gegu, said the effort of the Governor has enabled many investors express their desire to come to Kogi state to participate in the growth of businesses.
The Commissioner stated with gratitude to God for giving the state a visionary leader full of innovations and commitment to the wellbeing of his people.
He assured all potential investors from both within and outside Nigeria wishing to do business in the state, to hasten up and undergo diligent processes.
