Geo-environmental Hazards Associated with Lead-Zinc Mining in Ishiagu Ebonyi State Nigeria

Abstract

Introduction Geo-environmental hazard assessment; a prerequisite to mine design and development is being neglected in some parts of the world, resulting to environmental degradation and food insecurity. Degree of geo-environmental hazards (Geo-hazards) that may be associated with mining activity varies with what is mined, applicable technology, location of mining site and knowledge of the operators. For example, the degree of geo-hazards associated with limestone mining would be less to that of Pb-Zn mining. The degree of geo-hazards resulting from mining with advanced environmental friendly technology would not equate with that due to poor technology. Geo-hazard consequences of a mine located in urban vicinity would not equate to that of a mine located in a remote area. Finally, geo-hazard resulting from mining activity operated by well-established company would not equate with that operated by illegal poorly established mining operators. Geo-hazard associated with Pb-Zn mining activity in Ishiagu over the past 40 years is of great concern to environmentalists and the community. Discharge of mine waste to farm lands and consequent drainage to nearby stream is environmental crime that calls for investigation in Ishiagu and in other communities along the Benue Trough of Nigeria. Ishiagu is a semi-urban community with moderate population density located in the lower Benue trough of Nigeria (Figure 1a). Presence of Pb-Zn mines and hard rock quarries in the area is responsible to the influx of people from different parts of Nigeria and beyond, making Ishiagu a business vibrant area. Traditionally, Ishiagu people are typically farmers who take advantage of the surface clayey topsoil resulting from weathering of the exposed diabase to excel in the cultivation of tubers such as yam and cassava, and grains, particularly rice. It is possible that Ishiagu community, predominantly the poor farmers are ignorant of the environmental degradation and the obvious health implications. Several Pb-Zn mining companies have operated Ishiagu over the past 40 years, whereas the government office responsible for inspection of mines may not have been forthcoming. The community spokes persons who could have taken up the environmental matter with the operators are probably compromised or incapable.