Anambra State Commissioner for Environment Speaks On Illegal Sand Miners 

Anambra State Commissioner for Environment, Engineer Felix Odimegwu, has cleared the air on allegations that he ordered security personnel to assault illegal sand miners in the Ebenator community, Nnewi South Local Government Area.

In a statement addressing the reports, Odimegwu labeled the claims as malicious and the result of mischief makers intent on damaging both his reputation and that of the Ministry of Environment.

Odimegwu clarified that the Operation Clean and Healthy Anambra (OCHA Brigade) took action against illegal sand mining in strict adherence to directives from Governor Chukwuma Soludo. He confirmed that OCHA Brigade personnel, supported by members of the Anambra vigilante group, were dispatched to the site without any orders for violence.

The Commissioner emphasized the government’s stance on illegal sand mining, reminding local government chairmen that all mining activities have been suspended unless proper approval is obtained from the governor. “Ebenator community is plagued by severe erosion, and just two years ago, Governor Soludo graciously approved plans for the control and reclamation of affected areas. Ongoing efforts are in place to secure further approval for the second phase of erosion control and mitigation in the community,” he stated.

Odimegwu highlighted the vulnerability of Anambra’s unique soil composition, which led the governor to suspend all illegal sand mining activities statewide. He also mentioned the establishment of a sand mining reform committee designed to scrutinize any requests for mining operations. Only those recommended by the committee will receive the governor’s final approval.

In response to the recent incidents in Ebenator, Odimegwu explained that OCHA Brigade officers only acted after receiving reports of illegal sand mining. Unfortunately, he noted, some individuals barricaded the entrance to the site, prompting OCHA personnel to breach the blockade.

“The situation is now under control, and there is no cause for alarm,” he reassured.

Odimegwu further referred to the case of Mr. Okechukwu Akaneme, the former chairman of the Onitsha Chambers of Commerce, who was reportedly brutalized by contractors working with the Anambra State Waste Management Authority (ASWAMA). “Governor Soludo has committed to covering Akaneme’s N20 million medical expenses as part of the state’s priority to protect the lives and properties of its citizens.

“Under the Solution Government of Prof. Charles Chukwuma Soludo, we have earned the trust of the people of Anambra by responding to crises effectively and ensuring the state remains a safe and livable environment for all,” he concluded.

Meanwhile, the Anambra State Executive Council (ANSEC) recently convened for its 37th meeting, during which it reviewed a report from a fact-finding team appointed by Governor Soludo to investigate the situation concerning Akaneme, who is currently hospitalized in Enugu State. Commissioner for Information, Dr. Law Mefor, confirmed that ANSEC pledged to cover Akaneme’s medical costs and extended condolences and prayers for his swift recovery to his family.