The Abia State Government has ordered an immediate suspension of all sand dredging and extraction activities at the Umuadele River in Osisioma Local Government Area following reports of illegal operations and worsening environmental destruction.
The directive was issued by Philemon Asonye Ogbonna, the Commissioner for Environment, during an unscheduled inspection of the dredging site located at Okpulo Umuobo on Wednesday.
During the visit, the commissioner reportedly discovered extensive environmental degradation allegedly caused by more than ten years of unchecked mining and sand extraction activities in the area. The inspection formed part of the state government’s renewed effort to enforce environmental regulations and protect vulnerable communities from ecological damage.
Speaking at the site, Ogbonna directed all operators involved in the dredging activities to immediately report to the Ministry of Environment with documents confirming their operational permits and legal status.
According to the commissioner, the environmental condition of the affected area has become alarming due to continuous illegal dredging. He warned that failure to regulate the activities could further worsen erosion, land degradation, and other environmental risks within the community.
Ogbonna explained that the government’s action serves both as an enforcement measure and an opportunity for operators to cooperate with relevant authorities in ensuring compliance with environmental laws.
He reiterated the commitment of the Abia State Government to restoring environmental safety and maintaining sustainable practices across the state. The commissioner also stressed that strict monitoring and enforcement of environmental regulations would continue in all local government areas.
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Officials confirmed that the suspension of dredging operations will remain in effect until the verification process is completed and operators are cleared by the Ministry of Environment.
