The Nasarawa State Government has shut down a lithium mining firm, Timadix Geomin Consult Nigeria Limited, in Kokona Local Government Area, citing alleged breaches of mining regulations.
The move has sparked a dispute between the state government and the company.
Timadix Geomin Consult has been accused of operating without adhering to established guidelines for mining activities in the state.
However, the company claims otherwise, asserting that it followed due processes and secured the necessary licences before commencing operations.
Speaking at a press conference, Tim Eldon, the Managing Director of Timadix, urged the Federal Government and the Minister of Solid Minerals Development, Dele Alake, to intervene in what he described as unfair interference by the Nasarawa State Government.
“Timadix had obtained all necessary licences and complied with due processes before commencing operations,” Eldon stated.
In a counterstatement during a press briefing in Lafia, the state capital, Acting Governor of Nasarawa State, Dr. Emmanuel Akabe, refuted the company’s claims.
He accused the firm of bypassing standard procedures and operating without proper recognition as a legitimate operator in the state.
“Our decision to shut down Timadix Geomin Consult is in line with our resolve to end illegal mining in Nasarawa State. Findings from the committee set up to investigate the company’s operations revealed glaring irregularities,” Akabe explained.
The acting governor further disclosed that a sub-committee, which included Kokona Local Government Area stakeholders such as traditional rulers and the council chairman, uncovered inconsistencies in the company’s documentation.
“The report showed that Timadix did not follow due process. The so-called consent letters were not properly obtained, and signatures attributed to royal fathers were falsified. None of the traditional rulers signed any document for Timadix,” Akabe stated.
While reaffirming the state’s openness to legitimate investors, Akabe emphasized the need for companies to adhere to all legal and regulatory requirements.
“We welcome investors in Nasarawa State, but they must respect our laws. Timadix and others seeking to engage in mining or any other ventures must follow due process to avoid situations like this,” he warned.
The acting governor also assured residents that the state government would strengthen its oversight of mining activities and shut down any operations found to be illegal.
