ABAKALIKI— The abundant lead deposits in Enyigba and Ameka communities in Ebonyi State, which could have been a source of wealth and prosperity, have instead become a double-edged sword, leaving thousands grappling with life-threatening health conditions and environmental degradation.
Toxic Soil and Water
Residents of Enyigba in Abakaliki Local Government Area and Ameka in Ezza South Local Government Area face severe health hazards from lead pollution. Lead contamination of crops, vegetables, tubers, grains, and water has resulted in a surge of ailments among the population.
“We suffer from lead pollution through the water we drink and the dusty environment,” lamented Mrs. Amauche Nwogha, a resident. “Our children frequently battle skin infections and other illnesses. We don’t even have nearby hospitals to seek proper treatment.”
Community leader Chief Ewa Nworie confirmed that the toxic soil prevents crops from thriving, and the rivers and streams are no longer safe for consumption. “We rely on well water and boreholes, but these dry up during the dry season,” he said.
Neglected Communities
Residents also expressed frustration with the mining companies operating in their areas. “Despite paying royalties, miners fail to fulfill agreements to provide basic amenities like hospitals, schools, and clean water,” said Mr. Chike Nweke. He called for government intervention and education to help villagers understand the dangers of lead exposure.
The Health Crisis
Medical experts have highlighted the dire consequences of lead exposure. Dr. Charles Akuma from Alex Ekwueme Federal University Teaching Hospital, Abakaliki, explained that lead poisoning can lead to nervous system disorders, cardiovascular diseases, and kidney damage.
“Young children are particularly vulnerable, suffering permanent harm to their central nervous systems. Adults face risks like high blood pressure, strokes, and reproductive issues,” Akuma noted.
According to Prof. Wilberforce Oti, a lecturer at Ebonyi State University, about 90% of crops in the affected areas are contaminated. He warned that consuming these crops poses significant risks, especially for pregnant women, as lead stored in the bones can harm unborn children.
Solutions Proposed
Prof. Oti recommended “phytoremediation,” a process using specific plants to remove toxic metals from the soil. “Government should ban affected crops, encourage farming in uncontaminated areas, and fund more research into remediation methods,” he said.
Dr. Nnaemeka Eze, another expert, underscored the need for farmers to move operations away from polluted zones. He added, “Lead contamination from mining activities continues to pose serious risks to food security and public health.”
Government’s Stance
The Ebonyi State Commissioner for Solid Mineral Development, Chidi Onyia, criticized the Federal Ministry of Solid Minerals for inadequate supervision of mining companies. He emphasized that Governor Francis Nwifuru has made it mandatory for miners to provide basic amenities before starting operations.
“Mining causes environmental degradation worldwide, but miners here must adhere to agreements to mitigate the impact on host communities,” Onyia said.
Despite these measures, Onyia acknowledged that limited state control over mining licenses and lax federal oversight remain significant challenges.
A Call for Action
The plight of Enyigba and Ameka communities underscores the urgent need for coordinated efforts to address the devastating consequences of lead mining. Improved regulation, community education, and sustainable practices are critical to safeguarding lives and restoring the environment
