Fifteen Chinese nationals and nine Nigerians have been arraigned before the Federal High Court in Abuja by the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC) Mining Marshals for allegedly engaging in illegal mining activities in Nasarawa State.
The accused appeared before Justice Ofili-Ajumogobia (Court 6, Abuja Judicial Division) following their arrest on May 16, 2026. According to the NSCDC, the group was allegedly found mining lithium without proper authorization or a valid licence in Kokona Local Government Area.
Authorities stated that the defendants were apprehended inside a mineral title area covered by Exploration Licence No. 036528-EL, held by TIMADIX Geomin Consult Ltd. The alleged activity reportedly took place within the coordinates of longitude 8° 4’ 12”E and latitude 8° 34’ 12”N.
The Chinese nationals on trial 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.
The arraigned Nigerians include: Thankgod Sani, Abubakar Nuhu, Jonathan Akpa Sunday, Pius Favour, Agada Joshua, Sani Osu, Haruna Asambe, Elenekou Akoete Joli, and C and A International New Energy Ltd.
The court has scheduled June 18, 2026, for the commencement of the trial.
