The Akwa Ibom State Ministry of Environment and Mineral Resources has sealed off Jerospalm Company for engaging in illegal dredging operations at Edebom Nsit, Nsit Ubium Local Government Area.
The shutdown followed formal complaints from residents of Ikot Idem, Afaha Abia, and Ikot Nsit villages, who accused the company of causing severe environmental degradation—polluting watercourses, damaging farmlands, and weakening public infrastructure through its unregulated dredging activities.
Commissioner for Environment and Mineral Resources, Rt. Hon. Nsikak Ekong, who personally led the enforcement team, warned that the state government would not tolerate any operations that endanger the environment or threaten public safety.
He directed the management of Jerospalm Company to produce all legal authorizations for their activities and underscored the requirement for compliance with regulatory frameworks, including securing a valid Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA) report before commencing any form of mineral exploration.
“This government is committed to responsible environmental stewardship. No individual or company will be allowed to undermine our ecosystems or endanger communities through unlawful exploitation of natural resources,” the Commissioner stated.
Rt. Hon. Ekong urged all operators in the mining and dredging sector to engage with the Ministry for proper documentation and compliance to ensure that economic activities are aligned with sustainable development goals.
