Kaduna Community Cries Out Over ‘Poisonous Soot’ From Iron Ore Plant

Residents of Gujeni Community accuse mining firm of destroying farmlands, food supply and livelihoods

Residents of Gujeni Community, a cluster of agrarian communities in Kagarko Local Government Area of Kaduna State, have raised alarm over severe environmental pollution allegedly caused by emissions from an iron ore processing plant operated by African Natural Resources and Mines Limited (ANRML).

The residents allege that black soot and smoke from the facility have settled on homes, farmlands and vegetation, leading to the destruction of crops, contamination of food items and loss of livelihoods for farmers who depend largely on agriculture.

They also claim the emissions have posed serious health risks, with reports of breathing difficulties and other pollution-related ailments, particularly among children and the elderly. According to the community, water sources and household items are frequently coated with soot, making daily living increasingly difficult.

Community leaders say repeated complaints to relevant authorities have not produced meaningful action, prompting calls for urgent government intervention, independent environmental assessments and strict enforcement of environmental regulations.

Residents are demanding immediate remedial measures, compensation for losses suffered and stronger monitoring of mining activities to safeguard their environment and livelihoods.

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