The Ika Community Development Association Worldwide (ICDA), alongside several civil society organisations, has raised concern over alleged illegal coal mining activities in Ika, a community in Ankpa Local Government Area of Kogi State.
Speaking to journalists in Abuja on Monday, the association’s Secretary General, Abuh Shehu, accused certain individuals and foreign interests of putting pressure on the community to sign a questionable Community Development Agreement (CDA) that does not reflect the true interests of the people.
Shehu specifically warned against entering into any deal with Ms Julie Zhuo, a Chinese national, and her company, Afrasia Mineral Limited. He described the move as a violation of ministerial guidelines and an attempt to sideline the community’s rights.
According to Shehu, the Ministry of Solid Minerals had already directed that all CDA negotiations should be held between the Ika community and Orbit Exploration and Natural Products Limited, which holds the original mining licence.
“Afrasia Mineral Limited is acting outside the law and trying to force its way into our community through backdoor deals,” Shehu said.
He added that while the community is open to working legally and transparently with Orbit Exploration, it will resist any illegal attempts to exploit its resources or impose agreements by force.
“We are a peaceful and law-abiding people, but we will not sit back while our land and rights are taken away. If needed, we will pursue legal action,” he warned.
ICDA and its partners have called on the Ministry of Solid Minerals and other relevant government agencies to intervene urgently. They also urged national and international stakeholders to take note of the community’s plight and support its stand against illegal mining and exploitation.