Emma Elekwa
Anambra Civil Society Network (ACSoNeT), a foremost Citizen advocacy group has expressed concern over the growing tension in Onitsha following the protest by sand miners and tipper drivers over the confiscation of equipment, impoundment of vehicles, and arrests allegedly carried out by the OCHA Brigade without the involvement of the police and other relevant regulatory bodies.
Chairman, Prince Chris Azor in a statement said the group is particularly worried over breakdown of coordination among government institutions, stressing that regulation necessary to protect public infrastructure and environment must be carried out with transparency, due process, and respect for lawful operators.
He however called for urgent intervention of Governor Chukwuma Soludo, including convening a dialogue for the concerned parties as well as relevant State and Federal Agencies.
He said such convening will help to resolve the issues, clarify mandates and agree on fair and lawful operational processes.
The statement reads, “From a citizen and peace building perspective, the situation demands urgent attention.
“Sand mining and tipper operations are a key part of the construction value chain and provide daily income for thousands of people across Onitsha and neighbouring communities.
“When operations are abruptly shut down, families lose their means of survival, youth unemployment deepens, and frustration builds.
“If such tensions persist, they can easily spill into wider social unrest, crime, and insecurity.
Poor coordination
“ACSONet is particularly worried about the breakdown of coordination among government institutions.
“Enforcement actions that are not clearly qaligned with statutory regulators create confusion, fuel mistrust, and weaken the rule of law.
“Regulation is necessary to protect public infrastructure and the environment, but it must be carried out with transparency, due process, and respect for lawful operators.
“We are also mindful of the broader development implications.
“Disruptions in the supply of construction materials slow down building projects, raise costs, and delay public and private investments.
“This ultimately affects service delivery and undermines economic growth in the state.
“ACSONet therefore calls on the Anambra State Government, under the leadership of Governor Chukwuma Charles Soludo, to intervene quickly and de-escalate the situation.
“We urge the Governor to convene a dialogue involving the OCHA Brigade, relevant State and Federal Agencies, and representatives of the sand Miners and Tipper drivers to resolve the issues, clarify mandates, and agree on fair and lawful operational processes.
“Sustainable peace in Anambra depends on dialogue, coordination, and policies that protect both public order and the livelihoods of citizens.
“A timely and inclusive resolution will restore calm in Onitsha and reinforce public confidence in governance.”
