Coal Camp Drowning: Atu Demands Safety Measures at Abandoned Mines

ENUGU — The member representing Enugu North and South Federal Constituency in the House of Representatives, Hon. Chimaobi Sam Atu, has called for stronger safety measures and improved regulatory attention to mining activities, particularly around abandoned mining sites.

Atu made the call when he visited Aja-Agu Community in Coal Camp, Enugu, following the death of a resident, Mr Ifeanyichukwu Asonye, who was reportedly drowned at an old coal mining site in the community on Sunday evening.

The lawmaker inspected the scene of the incident, interacted with residents and community leaders and sympathised with the bereaved family.

He said the incident had renewed concerns about the safety of residents, particularly young people, around abandoned and old mining sites in communities across the country.

Atu urged residents to exercise caution when visiting abandoned mining locations, stressing the need for greater attention to safety around such sites.

He commended the Enugu State Government and the Chairman of Enugu North Local Government Area, Dr Ibenaku Onoh, for what he described as their prompt intervention, which facilitated the recovery of the deceased’s remains.

The lawmaker said the incident underscored the need for stronger safety measures and regulatory attention around abandoned mining sites and mining communities.

Atu recalled that he had sponsored a bill in the House of Representatives seeking to repeal the Nigeria Coal Corporation Act.

According to him, the proposed repeal is aimed at modernising the legal framework governing coal and mining activities while strengthening regulation within the sector.

“The proposed legislative reform, among other considerations, seeks to promote improved safety standards for communities located around mining areas, while creating a more contemporary legal framework capable of supporting responsible mining development.

“It is widely believed that properly regulated coal mining has the potential to contribute significantly to job creation and economic development in Enugu State,” he said.

He, however, stressed that such economic development must not compromise human safety, environmental protection and the wellbeing of host communities.

Atu said the latest incident further highlighted the importance of addressing safety challenges associated with abandoned mining sites and ensuring that communities affected by mining activities received adequate protection.

Meanwhile, the President of the Coal Camp Youth Welfare Association, Comrade Emmanuel Umeadi, commended Atu for his prompt response to the incident and his continued support for the community.

Also speaking, the Councillor representing Ogbete West Ward 6, Hon. Chukwuemeka Udom, praised the lawmaker for his consistent commitment to the people of Coal Camp.

Udom described the visit as another demonstration of Atu’s willingness to stand with the community, particularly in times of need.

He appreciated the lawmaker for identifying with the residents and the bereaved family, noting that his continued presence and interventions had strengthened his relationship with members of the community.