Residents of Okpanku community in Aninri Local Government Area of Enugu State have raised the alarm over alleged pollution of the Ivo River, accusing three mining companies operating in neighbouring Ebonyi State of endangering lives and livelihoods.

The allegations have heightened concerns over environmental safety and public health, with residents calling for urgent government intervention and an independent investigation.

President-General of Okpanku community, Ajah Kanayochukwu Charles, a former Enugu State Commissioner for Water Resources, said the river remains the community’s only major source of drinking water, domestic use, fishing and farming.

He explained that Okpanku, comprising seven villages, depends entirely on the river, which flows from Ishiagu through communities in Ivo Local Government Area of Ebonyi State.

Ajah alleged that mining activities by Greenfield Nigeria Limited, Ambratone Nigeria Limited and Arab Contractors Nigeria Limited had contaminated the river with toxic substances, including possible heavy metals.

“Our community depends solely on this river. It is the only perennial source of water we have, but it is now being polluted by mining activities,” he said.

He further claimed that residents had recorded unusual illnesses and deaths, alleging that between 30 and 40 people had died in the past two years under circumstances possibly linked to the water source.

Ajah urged security agencies and relevant authorities to compel the companies to halt further pollution and safeguard affected communities.

However, one of the accused firms, Greenfield Nigeria Limited, denied the allegations, maintaining that its operations comply with environmental regulations.

Speaking for the company, Mr Henry Ahanotu described the claims as baseless and challenged accusers to provide evidence.

“We are not polluting any environment. Our operations strictly follow mining laws as regulated by the Federal Ministry of Mineral Development,” he said.

Ahanotu added that the company undergoes regular inspections by the National Environmental Standards and Regulations Enforcement Agency and warned that it could pursue legal action over what it described as defamatory claims.