15 Chinese, Nine Nigerians Arraigned Over Alleged Illegal Lithium Mining in Nasarawa
Twenty-four individuals, including 15 Chinese nationals and nine Nigerians, have been arraigned before a Federal High Court in Abuja over alleged illegal lithium mining activities in Nasarawa State.
The defendants were brought before Justice Rita Ofili-Ajumogobia on a two-count charge related to unlawful mining operations. The case, marked FHC/ABJ/CR/281/2026, was filed on May 18.
The accused Chinese nationals 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.
Also charged are nine Nigerians: Thankgod Sani, Abubakar Nuhu, Jonathan Akpa Sunday, Pius Favour, Agada Joshua, Sani Osu, Haruna Asambe, Elenekou Akoete Joli, alongside C and A International New Energy Ltd.
According to the prosecution, the defendants were arrested on May 16 in Kokona Local Government Area of Nasarawa State while allegedly conducting lithium mining operations without legal authorization.
Court documents indicate that the suspects were apprehended within the area covered by Exploration Licence No. 036528-EL, reportedly owned by TIMADIX Geomin Consult Ltd. The alleged activities were said to have occurred around longitude 8°4’12″E and latitude 8°34’12″N.
The prosecution argued that the offence contravenes provisions of the Miscellaneous Offences Act and attracts penalties under the same legislation.
All defendants pleaded not guilty to the charges.
Following their plea, defence counsel M.T. Adekilekun (SAN) applied for bail, assuring the court that the defendants would be available for trial.
Justice Ofili-Ajumogobia granted the request, ordering that the accused be released to their counsel pending the determination of the case. As part of the bail conditions, the court directed them to surrender their international passports and national identity cards to the court registrar.
No monetary bond or sureties were required.
The case was adjourned until June 18 for trial.
