By Enugu
In a groundbreaking legal development, the Enugu State High Court, under the jurisdiction of Justice A.R Ozoemena, Chief Judge of Enugu State, has issued a momentous restraining order against two prominent companies, Milhouse Energy Services and African Pits & Quarries Ltd. This historic court order prohibits these entities from engaging in coal mining operations in the picturesque region of Awhum, located within the Udi Local Government Area of Enugu State, Nigeria.
The swift legal action was initiated in response to an ex-parte application presented before the court by the diligent and proactive Attorney-General of Enugu State in Suit No. E/626m/2023. The application was prepared and presented by the legal team comprising W.I Ezenwukwa Esq., C.C Egungbe Esq., and C.J Chukwuebuka Esq. on behalf of the Applicant.
The Court’s Firm Stand
Enugu
Justice A.R Ozoemena, after meticulous consideration of the arguments presented, issued a clear and unambiguous directive. The court’s order can be summarized as follows:
- Restraining Order: The court has imposed an order of interim injunction, effectively restraining the Respondents (Milhouse Energy Services and African Pits & Quarries Ltd) from conducting any further activities, including environmental degradation, that may cause harm or disruption to the vast expanse of land situated at Ibite Awhum, Udi Local Government Area of Enugu State.
- Suspension of Activities: The court has also ordered an immediate suspension of all mining-related activities carried out by the Respondents. This includes the sealing and closure of the premises situated at Ibite Awhum, Udi Local Government Area of Enugu State.
The gravity of this court order cannot be overstated. It not only underscores the importance of protecting our environment but also serves as a clear message that the judicial system is committed to upholding environmental regulations and the well-being of the local communities.
The Path to Legal Action
Enugu
The legal proceedings leading to this landmark decision were set in motion by the proactive stance of the Enugu State government. Governor Peter Mbah’s administration, in a bold move in June, took a definitive step to ban all illegal mining activities within the state. Additionally, the administration established the Enugu State Committee on Review of Mining Activities to tackle the menace head-on.
This committee, headed by the Commissioner for Environment and Climate Change, Prof. Sam Ugwu, commenced its enforcement activities by sealing up illegal mining sites within the state. The Awhum coal mining site operated by Milhouse Energy Services and African Pits & Quarries was among the first to face the consequences of their actions.
Environmental Degradation and Non-Compliance
Enugu
The decision to take legal action against these mining companies was not arbitrary. The Committee had identified a series of significant issues, including:
1. Environmental Degradation
The mining operations had been causing extensive environmental degradation, including deforestation, soil erosion, and damage to the natural habitat. The blasting without proper approvals and adherence to regulations had wreaked havoc on the ecosystem.
2. Non-Remittance of Staff Tax
Despite deducting staff taxes, the companies had failed to remit these funds to the state government. This not only affected government revenue but also placed an undue burden on the workforce.
3. Non-Remittance of Pension Contributions
Similarly, the companies had deducted pension contributions from their staff without ensuring that these contributions were remitted to the pension scheme. This put the financial future of their employees at risk.
A Commitment to Environmental Stewardship
In response to the court’s decision, Prof. Sam Ugwu, the head of the Enugu State Committee on Review of Mining Activities, reiterated the government’s unwavering commitment to environmental stewardship. He emphasized that the enforcement of the ban on illegal mining would continue until the state is entirely free from this harmful practice.
He stated, “We have no room or land or even forest for illegal mining activities or any mining activities that undermine the environment, lives, and economic well-being of our people and the State today or in the future.”
Prof. Ugwu further drew attention to the long-term consequences of environmental damage, citing the enduring suffering of communities in the Niger Delta due to past oil exploration activities. He underlined the importance of preventing a similar fate for Enugu State, which once powered industries beyond its borders through coal mining.
Conclusion
In conclusion, the Enugu State High Court’s restraining order against Milhouse Energy Services and African Pits & Quarries Ltd represents a significant victory for environmental protection and the welfare of local communities. It reflects the state government’s determination to uphold environmental regulations and safeguard the interests of its citizens.
As we look ahead, it is evident that the enforcement of this court order is just the beginning of a broader commitment to preserving Enugu State’s natural resources for future generations. The decision sends a powerful message that the state will not stand idly by while its environment is subjected to degradation and its people’s well-being is compromised.
The case is set to resume on October 3, 2023, and the outcome will undoubtedly be watched closely by all stakeholders. In the meantime, the Enugu State government remains resolute in its mission to protect its land, its people, and its future.
