The people of Amaeze community in Ishiagu, Ivo Local Government Area of Ebonyi have reaffirmed their decision to support Zotman Nigeria Limited (ZML) as the sole quarry operator at the Mboro Ajaenyim quarry site.
The reaffirmation came during the second day of the community’s emergency general assembly, where men and women voted 133 to one in favour of ZML.
A statement signed by Mr Ogbonna Nwaeni, Chairman of the Amaeze Development Union (ADU), and made available to newsmen on Saturday in Abakaliki, said the ballot was conducted to reaffirm an earlier resolution endorsing ZML in view of alleged attempts by the Ishiagu Community Development Union (ICDU) to impose another company.
According to the statement, ICDU had, in a letter signed by its president, Arc. Moses Ajah, granted Hephziba and Beulah Concepts Nigeria Limited access to the quarry site under Quarry Lease License No. 46329QL, giving the firm three months to mobilise equipment and commence operations or forfeit the licence.
Nwaeni said Amaeze rejected the arrangement, insisting that no agreement or Community Development Agreement (CDA) would be signed with any other firm apart from ZML. He noted that the choice was based on ZML’s proven track record in security and community welfare in other host communities such as Ihietutu.
“Our decision to partner with ZML is final. The previously dormant quarry site had become a haven for criminals, including kidnappers and armed herdsmen, making it imperative to engage a competent and security-conscious operator,” the statement read.
The union warned individuals and groups, particularly the ICDU leadership, against actions that could undermine Amaeze’s position, urging them to align with the will of the landlords to avoid a breakdown of law and order.
Chief Kama Nkemkanma, member representing Ohaozara/Onitsha/Ivo Federal Constituency in the House of Representatives, attended the emergency assembly.
Amaeze is a semi-autonomous community in Ishiagu, sharing boundaries with Awgu in Enugu State and Lokpanta in Abia State, and is host to several mineral deposits. ENDS//
