The Mining Marshals of the Nigeria Security amd Civil Defence Corp NSCDC) have arraigned 15 Chinese nationals and nine Nigerians before a federal high court in Abuja over alleged illegal lithium mining in Nasarawa state.
The Cable reported that the defendants were brought before Rita Ofili-Ajumogobia, judge of the federal high court, on a two-count charge bordering on unlawful mining activities.
The charge, marked FHC/ABJ/CR/281/2026, was filed on May 18.
Those charged are Liu Jiabin, Hu Yunzhong, Zhou Yinmou, Zhao Feng, Zhang Yu, Tian Shuqun, Huang Ruqian, Liu Yanliang, Yang Xiaobin, Huang Meiyun, Yuan Tao, Jia Qiuyong, Chen Menghao, Deng Peiming and Yu Yanhai.
Others are Thankgod Sani, Abubakar Nuhu, Jonathan Akpa Sunday, Pius Favour, Agada Joshua, Sani Osu, Haruna Asambe, Elenekou Akoete Joli and C and A International New Energy Ltd.
According to the charge, the defendants were arrested on May 16 in Kokona LGA of Nasarawa state while allegedly carrying out lithium mining operations without lawful authority.
The prosecution alleged that the suspects were apprehended within the area covered by Exploration Licence No. 036528-EL, a mineral title held by TIMADIX Geomin Consult Ltd.
Court documents state that the alleged mining activities took place within the coordinates of longitude 8°4’12″E and latitude 8°34’12″N.
Source: The cable
