Communities in Yola, Adamawa State, are pressing for a federal investigation into a mining company they suspect of exacerbating the 28 July floods that claimed 23 lives and displaced thousands.
Residents allege that excess water was deliberately or accidentally released from a dam linked to the company’s mining operations in Bolle on the day of the disaster. They argue that heavier rains in the past had not produced comparable flooding, suggesting the dam’s discharge was a decisive factor.
Some victims, such as Musa Yakubu, claim to have video footage of the water surge. Others, including Babayola, warn that continued mining activity has already degraded farmland and forest reserves, heightening tensions with locals. According to him, security forces intervened on the day of the flood to prevent mob attacks against the company.
Hajara Abubakar voiced health concerns, alleging that chemicals from the dam had entered flooded areas, potentially contaminating water sources.
The Adamawa State government, however, has absolved the firm of wrongdoing. Commissioner for Environment Mohammed Sadiq described claims of illegal operations as “baseless” and said the company held all required permits. He maintained that the volume of water released from the dam’s spillway could not explain the severity of the flooding.
Survivors argue that state authorities are too close to the company to be impartial, citing past disputes such as the distribution of expired relief items. They say federal intervention — and possibly international scrutiny — is needed to restore public trust and address wider concerns over mining’s environmental impact in the region.
