NSCDC Defends 13-Month Closure of Stone Rockers Abuja Quarry

Nigeria's Security and Civil Defence Corps Mining Marshals has justified keeping Stone Rockers Nigeria Limited's quarry site in Abuja locked down for over a year, stating the facility qualifies as an active crime scene tied to an ongoing criminal case. Assistant Commandant John Onoja, heading the NSCDC Mining Marshals unit, issued the statement after Stone Rockers petitioned President Bola Tinubu and other top officials demanding the quarry reopen, claiming the shutdown lacked legal backing.

Stone Rockers had argued that the 13-month operational halt was unlawful and proceeded without court authorization. The company's petition generated media attention as it escalated complaints to the presidency and other senior government bodies.

The mining authorities, however, countered that the closure is neither an arbitrary administrative action nor a penalty, but rather a necessary protective measure for an active criminal investigation site. According to the NSCDC statement, the quarry cannot resume operations until the Federal High Court resolves the underlying criminal case.

The closure stems from allegations that Stone Rockers and its director engaged in illegal mining within a mineral concession area. The sources indicate a dispute over mining rights territory, with references to Lord's Career Ventures Nigeria Limited holding a mineral title for the area in question.

The clash between Stone Rockers and authorities reflects broader tensions in Nigeria's mining sector over site access, regulatory authority, and the legal procedures required for closure orders. The Federal High Court remains the arbiter of whether Stone Rockers can return to extractive operations at the Abuja location.