NSCDC Insists Abuja Quarry Must Remain Shut Pending Court Verdict

The Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC) Mining Marshals have defended the continued closure of a quarry site in Abuja, maintaining that the facility cannot resume operations because it remains central to an ongoing criminal case before a Federal High Court.

The agency said the shutdown is linked to allegations of illegal mining activities and is not an administrative sanction against the company involved. According to officials, the quarry forms part of the evidence in a legal dispute currently undergoing judicial determination.

The clarification follows complaints by the affected company over the prolonged closure of its operations, with the firm arguing that the shutdown has lasted for more than a year and lacks judicial backing.

However, the NSCDC stated that investigations leading to the prosecution were initiated after petitions alleging unlawful mining activities within a licensed mineral title area. Authorities said evidence gathered during the investigation formed the basis of charges now being considered by the court.

The agency further explained that findings from its investigation identified the disputed mining location as falling within an area covered by an existing mining lease held by another company. It added that relevant documents and other materials would be presented during court proceedings.

Officials criticised attempts to seek administrative intervention while the matter remains before the courts, arguing that such actions could undermine the judicial process. They insisted that all issues raised by the parties involved should be resolved through the legal system.

The NSCDC also dismissed allegations that its enforcement actions were influenced by external interests, stressing that decisions taken during the operation were based strictly on evidence obtained during investigations.

According to the agency, efforts to combat illegal mining remain a priority, particularly as the Federal Government seeks to strengthen regulation of the solid minerals sector and protect the rights of legitimate licence holders.

The corps reiterated its commitment to enforcing mining regulations and pursuing cases involving alleged violations, regardless of pressure from interested parties.

It also urged media organisations to exercise caution and ensure thorough verification of claims before publishing reports on matters that are already the subject of ongoing legal proceedings.