Nasarawa government orders evacuation of mining company over alleged security and operational violations

The Nasarawa State Government has ordered the immediate shutdown of Lideal Mines Company, which operates in Endo Community, Udege Development Area, citing security concerns and repeated breaches of agreements with the host community.

Commissioner for Environment and Natural Resources Margaret Elayo made the announcement during a press briefing in Lafia. She accused the company of ignoring earlier directives issued by the state government.

Elayo said the firm had previously been sanctioned for multiple operational infractions before taking the matter to court. The Federal High Court in Lafia later upheld the state’s counter‑motion, allowing the latest directive to be enforced.

After extensive consultations with stakeholders, security agencies, and community representatives, the government decided that the company must immediately begin removing all equipment, machinery, trucks, operational facilities, and personnel from the site.

She explained that the move is part of the administration’s commitment to lawful mining operations, maintaining peace in host communities, and enforcing strict compliance with state regulations governing the extractive sector.

“Following engagements with relevant stakeholders and security reports concerning mining activities in the affected area, the government has directed the company to commence the immediate evacuation of all operational facilities and personnel from the site,” she said.

The Commissioner added that the company would be given a specified timeframe to complete the withdrawal in accordance with government directives.

Elayo noted that the action aligns with reforms introduced by Governor Abdullahi Sule, who aims to reposition the mining sector so that it delivers more direct economic benefits to host communities and the state.

According to the commissioner, the governor has consistently insisted that investors in the mining sector must establish functional processing facilities that boost local economic development and create employment opportunities.

She also announced that security operatives would be deployed immediately to the affected site to enforce compliance and prevent any unauthorized activities.

“The deployment will involve relevant security agencies tasked with maintaining law and order as well as protecting government interests within the affected area,” she added.

The Commissioner reaffirmed the state government’s readiness to support genuine investors, while stressing that all operators must strictly adhere to the laws, policies, and developmental objectives of Nasarawa State.

She urged mining companies and host communities to remain peaceful and cooperative as the government continues reforms aimed at sanitising the sector and promoting responsible mining practices across the state.