By Elizabeth Okwe| April 30, 2025
In what many have described as a timely and courageous step, Hon. Yahaya Umar, the lawmaker representing Omala State Constituency in the Kogi State House of Assembly, is receiving accolades for raising the alarm over the environmental and public health crisis caused by coal mining in his constituency.
The motion, which called for an immediate suspension of all mining activities in Omala Local Government Area, has drawn commendation from across the state — most notably from the Convener of the Kogi Professionals Network and seasoned development administrator, Dr. James Odaudu.
Reacting to the motion, Dr. Odaudu described Hon. Umar’s action as “a courageous stand in defence of environmental justice,” saying it was refreshing to see a legislator so passionately defending the health and welfare of his constituents.
According to him, “These mining companies were licensed to support Nigeria’s electricity development goals, yet instead of power, they have brought pollution, contaminated rivers, and destroyed farmlands in host communities.”
He praised the Kogi State House of Assembly for backing the motion and setting up an ad-hoc committee to investigate the matter, describing it as “how democracy is supposed to work — responsive and people-centered.”Dr. Odaudu, in a statement on Wednesday in Abuja, also issued a passionate appeal to the Government of Kogi State to move swiftly beyond legislative action and implement practical relief measures for affected communities.

Dr. James Odaudu
Convener, Kogi Professionals Network
“We urge the State Government to begin immediate clean-up of polluted water sources in Omala and surrounding areas, while putting in place a sustainable plan to provide potable water as a long-term solution,” he stressed.
He further emphasized the need for mining companies operating in the state to honor their corporate social responsibilities and sign enforceable Community Development Agreements (CDAs) with the local government administrations in line with global best practices.
“Profiteering must not come at the expense of our people’s lives and their future, We trust that the government of Governor Usman Ododo will do the needful as usual ” Dr. Odaudu added.
The coal mining controversy in Omala and other parts of Kogi State has stirred increasing public concern, with calls for stronger regulation, corporate accountability, and community protection gaining momentum.