Mines workers’ union warns members against illegal mining in Anambra

The Nigeria Union of Mines Workers (NUMW) has issued a stern warning to tipper drivers and heavy equipment operators (caterpillar operators) to refrain from working in any mining pit not approved by the Anambra State Government.

 

The warning comes as part of an ongoing effort to ensure that mining activities in the state comply with legal regulations.

 

Speaking during a sensitization and awareness campaign on December 11, 2024, Comrade Onyah Kelvin Chimbuzor, Chairman of the union, stressed that any member found violating the directive would face the full consequences of the law.

 

The campaign, aimed at educating workers, took place across various mining sites in communities and local government areas of the state, including Awka mining zone, Nawfia, Ukpo, Aguleri, and Awkuzu.

 

The campaign followed recent incidents where members of the union had their trucks seized by the Anambra State Taskforce on Healthy and Clean Environment (Ocha Brigade) for illegal mining activities at the Ofala Ebenato mining site in Nnewi South LGA.

 

The union’s intervention, led by Comrade Onyah, resulted in the release of the affected members and their vehicles with the assistance of Mr. Celestine Anere, Managing Director of the Ocha Brigade.

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In addition to the warning, Comrade Onyah appealed to the Anambra State Government for a downward review of the tax burden on tipper drivers, who are part of the union’s transport unit.

 

The call was made in light of the ongoing harsh economic realities, which have made it increasingly difficult for these workers to maintain their daily operations.

 

The union also expressed its support for the Soludo-led administration, commending the governor’s efforts in improving the state’s infrastructure, including the construction of several link roads.

 

The union pledged continued support for the governor’s bid for a second term in the upcoming November 2025 governorship election.

 

The union’s leadership also thanked the Anambra State Command of the Nigeria Security and Civil Defense Corps (NSCDC) for their support during the sensitization exercise, and acknowledged the heavy equipment operators along the Lake Nkpor Onitsha Express Road for their cooperation.