Imo State Governor Hope Uzodimma has ordered the closure of mining sites within the Owerri capital territory.

The state Commissioner for Industry, Mines, and Solid Minerals, Rt. Hon. Ernest Ibejiako, made the announcement on Tuesday at the state Secretariat in Owerri.

Ibejiako, said the state government will no longer tolerate mining activities within the capital territory, citing concerns for safety and environmental impact.

?Today marks the end of mining activity within the capital territory of the state,? he declared.

He said the ban extends to areas such as Army Barracks and Obinze and other parts of Owerri West LGA. ?Anyone outside the capital territory, we can allow it, but anyone within the capital territory, we will not allow it, including Army Barracks,? Ibejiako emphasized.

?This is governor?s directive, it will be executed to the latter,? he added

The commissioner further disclosed that a monitoring team has been established by the state government to enforce the ban, warning that anyone found violating the directive, regardless of their status, will face prosecution.

This move, he said is aimed to protect the environment and prevent potential hazards associated with mining activities in the capital territory. (The Nation)