ABUJA — The Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC) has arraigned 15 Chinese nationals and nine Nigerians before the Federal High Court in Abuja on charges of illegal lithium mining in Nasarawa State.
The Arraignment
The defendants appeared before Justice Ofili-Ajumogobia following their arrest on May 16, 2026, in the Kokona Local Government Area of Nasarawa State. According to court documents (Charge No. FHC/ABJ/CR/281/2026), the group is accused of conducting unauthorized mining operations on land covered by an existing exploration license held by TIMADIX Geomin Consult Ltd.
The defendants face charges of unauthorized mining contrary to Section 1(8)(b) of the Miscellaneous Offences Act.
Defendants Charged
• Chinese Nationals: 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.
• Nigerian Defendants: Thankgod Sani, Abubakar Nuhu, Jonathan Akpa Sunday, Pius Favour, Agada Joshua, Sani Osu, Haruna Asambe, and Elenekou Akoete Joli.
• Corporate Defendant: C and A International New Energy Ltd.
Bail Conditions and Next Steps
During the proceedings, defense counsel Prof. M. T. Adekilekun (SAN) successfully applied for bail. Justice Ofili-Ajumogobia granted the application, ordering that the defendants be released into the custody of their counsel pending trial.
As part of the bail conditions, all defendants must deposit their international passports and national identity cards with the court registrar. No monetary bond or sureties were required. The case has been adjourned until June 18, 2026, for trial.
Commitment to Sector Security
Attah Onoja, Commander of the Mining Marshals, reiterated that the NSCDC remains dedicated to sanitizing Nigeria’s mining sector. "The fight against illegal mining is a national responsibility," Onoja stated, emphasizing that enforcement efforts will continue across the country to protect mineral resources and ensure compliance with the law.
