Kogi Assembly demands urgent intervention after Ankpa mining disaster

The Kogi State House of Assembly has called for urgent intervention to assist victims of the recent mining disaster in Alufele, Enjema District of Ankpa Local Government Area, while demanding stronger safety regulations to prevent a recurrence.

The resolution followed a motion of urgent public importance moved by the member representing Ankpa II State Constituency, Hon. Ibrahim Abbas, during Tuesday’s plenary of the Eighth Assembly.

Abbas informed lawmakers that the mining incident, which occurred on July 14, 2026, claimed several lives and raised serious concerns over safety standards and mining practices in the area.

He urged the state government, National Emergency Management Agency (NEMA), Kogi State Emergency Management Agency (KOSEMA) and other relevant authorities to provide immediate relief, medical care and other forms of assistance to affected victims and their families.

According to him, the incident was a painful reminder that the exploitation of the state’s mineral resources must be carried out alongside responsible environmental management and adequate safety measures.

He noted that Kogi State was endowed with significant solid mineral deposits, particularly coal, which could contribute to industrial growth, employment generation and economic development if properly harnessed.

The lawmaker also acknowledged the role of artisanal mining in providing livelihoods for residents and supporting economic activities in host communities but stressed that the sector required stronger regulation, technical support and improved safety practices.

Abbas called for increased public sensitisation on mining safety, capacity-building programmes for artisanal miners and the provision of alternative livelihoods for those whose activities may be affected by regulatory measures.

He said the government and stakeholders should focus on preventive measures rather than waiting until disasters occur before responding.

The House consequently urged the Kogi State Government to work with the Federal Ministry of Solid Minerals Development, security agencies, local government councils, traditional rulers, host communities and licensed mining operators to strengthen community-based monitoring and promote safer mining operations.

It further called for environmental restoration, technical assistance, vocational training and alternative livelihood programmes for artisanal miners affected by regulatory interventions.

Seconding the motion, the member representing Ajaokuta State Constituency, Hon. Abu Onoru-Oiza Abu, proposed that mining operators in Ankpa Local Government Area be summoned to appear before the House and explain the safety measures they had adopted to prevent similar incidents.

Ruling on the motion, the Speaker of the House, Rt. Hon. Aliyu Yusuf, emphasised the need for lawmakers to support their submissions with empirical evidence when raising matters affecting their constituents.

The Speaker also called for stricter safety standards and improved monitoring of mining activities across Kogi State.