Delta Businessman Detained After Exposing Illegal Mining Activities

By Diafa Doubra,

A Delta State businessman and environmental activist, Anthony Anamonye, has been arrested and detained by police after exposing alleged illegal mining operations causing severe environmental damage in the region.

According to reports, Anamonye had raised alarm over destructive mining activities that were polluting rivers and farmlands in Delta communities. His outcry reportedly angered some powerful interests linked to the mining company. He was later picked up by police officers and forced to sign a “disclaimer” retracting his statements as a condition for release.

Human rights groups have condemned the arrest, describing it as an attempt to silence voices speaking against environmental abuse. They called on the Delta State Government and the Nigerian Police Force to respect the rights of whistleblowers and ensure transparency in handling the case.

The police are yet to issue an official comment on the matter, but activists say Anamonye’s ordeal reflects a growing pattern of intimidation against environmental defenders in Nigeria.