The Member representing Enugu North and South Federal Constituency in the House of Representatives, Hon. Chimaobi Sam Atu, has visited Aja-Agu Community in Coal Camp, Enugu State, following the death of a resident, Ifeanyichukwu Asonye, who reportedly drowned at an abandoned coal mining site.
Asonye reportedly died on Sunday evening, September 6, 2026, after drowning at one of the old mining locations in the community, an incident that has renewed concerns about the dangers posed by abandoned mining pits and other neglected mining facilities across Coal Camp.
The incident has particularly raised concerns about the safety of children and young people who may visit or play around the abandoned sites without being aware of the potential dangers associated with them.
During his visit to the community, Hon. Atu inspected the scene of the incident and held discussions with residents, community leaders and other stakeholders on the circumstances surrounding the tragedy.
The lawmaker also visited and sympathised with the bereaved family, expressing condolences over the loss and calling for greater vigilance by residents around abandoned mining locations.
Atu commended the Enugu State Government and the Chairman of Enugu North Local Government Area, Dr. Ibekaku, for their prompt intervention following the incident, particularly the efforts that facilitated the recovery of the deceased.
He said the tragedy was a painful reminder of the urgent need for stronger safety measures, monitoring and regulatory intervention around abandoned mining sites.
According to him, while the history of coal mining remains an important part of Enugu’s economic and social development, abandoned mining facilities should not be allowed to constitute a danger to the communities where they are located.
He called on relevant authorities to identify abandoned pits, shafts and other potentially dangerous mining sites and take appropriate measures to secure them, including fencing, warning signs and other safety interventions where necessary.
The lawmaker also urged parents and community leaders to educate children and youths on the dangers of entering abandoned mining areas.
Lawmaker seeks reform of coal mining law.
Atu’s visit also drew attention to his ongoing legislative efforts to reform Nigeria’s legal framework for coal mining.
The lawmaker has sponsored a bill in the House of Representatives seeking to repeal the Nigeria Coal Corporation Act, with the objective of modernising the legal framework governing coal and related mining activities.
The proposed reform is aimed at providing a more contemporary framework for the regulation and development of the coal industry while addressing issues associated with the country’s changing mining environment.
Atu has maintained that properly regulated coal mining could play a significant role in job creation, investment and economic development, particularly in Enugu State, which has a long history of coal mining.
He, however, stressed that economic benefits must not come at the expense of human lives, environmental sustainability and the welfare of host communities.
The latest drowning incident, he noted, further demonstrates the importance of putting in place effective mechanisms for managing abandoned mining sites and protecting communities living around them.
He emphasised that the development of the mining sector must go hand in hand with stringent safety standards, environmental protection, responsible mining practices and adequate safeguards for host communities.
Youth association commends lawmaker.
Meanwhile, the President of the Coal Camp Youth Welfare Association, Comrade Chiedozie Emmanuel Umeadi, commended Atu for his prompt response to the incident and his decision to personally visit the community.
Umeadi described the lawmaker’s intervention as an indication of his concern for the welfare and security of residents of Coal Camp.
He also called for sustained attention to the safety challenges posed by abandoned mining sites, particularly those located close to residential areas.
Similarly, the Councillor representing Ogbete West Ward 6, Hon. Chukwuemeka Emmanuel Udom, praised Atu for what he described as his consistent commitment to the people of Coal Camp.
Udom said the lawmaker’s visit demonstrated his willingness to identify with constituents during difficult moments, particularly when communities are confronted with tragedies.
He appreciated Atu for visiting the scene, sympathising with the bereaved family and engaging directly with residents over the incident.
The councillor noted that such engagements had helped strengthen the relationship between the lawmaker and residents of the community.
The drowning has meanwhile heightened calls from residents and community stakeholders for urgent action to secure abandoned coal mining locations in Coal Camp and prevent further loss of lives.
