15 Chinese, 9 Nigerians Arraigned Over Alleged Illegal Lithium Mining in Nasarawa

Abuja, Nigeria 🇳🇬  01 June, 2026

The Mining Marshals of the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC) have arraigned 15 Chinese nationals and nine Nigerians before the Federal High Court in Abuja over alleged involvement in illegal lithium mining activities in Nasarawa State.

The defendants were brought before Justice Rita Ofili-Ajumogobia on a two-count charge bordering on unlawful mining operations. The charge, marked FHC/ABJ/CR/281/2026, was filed on May 18, 2026.

According to the prosecution, the suspects were allegedly engaged in mining activities without the requisite authorisation and in violation of Nigeria’s mining laws. The defendants were reportedly arrested during an operation conducted by the NSCDC Mining Marshals in Kokona Local Government Area of Nasarawa State.

The prosecution further alleged that the accused persons carried out mining operations within a licensed mining area without lawful authority, an offence said to be contrary to the provisions of the Miscellaneous Offences Act and other relevant mining regulations.

At the court proceedings, the defendants entered their pleas, while counsel to the parties presented arguments on issues relating to their trial and bail applications.

Justice Ofili-Ajumogobia subsequently adjourned the matter to a later date for the continuation of proceedings.

The arraignment is part of ongoing efforts by the Federal Government and security agencies to combat illegal mining activities across the country, particularly in mineral-rich states where unauthorized extraction has become a growing concern.

Lithium, a critical mineral used in the production of rechargeable batteries and renewable energy technologies, has attracted increasing attention from both local and foreign investors due to rising global demand.