By Nifemi Gideon
Tension rose in Akure North Local Government Area of Ondo State on Thursday morning as residents of Mercy Land Community, located behind the popular Shasha Market in Oba-Ile, staged a protest against the activities of Ebenezer Quarry Company, accusing the firm of endangering lives and destroying property through repeated blasting operations.
Men, women, and youths gathered to express their anger and frustration, saying they could no longer endure what they described as years of environmental, structural, and psychological damage caused by mining operations near their homes.
Community members say they have been suffering in silence as blasting vibrations from the quarry continue to weaken buildings and threaten public safety.
Several houses, according to residents, have developed deep cracks, while others have suffered partial structural damage that now puts families at risk.
The Chairman of the community, Mr. Adesugba Sikiru, expressed concern over what residents described as one of the most severe recent blasts, which allegedly affected about 18 houses. Residents said they had earlier been informed that blasting would occur around 1:00 p.m., when many people would be away at work, but the explosion reportedly happened around 5:30 p.m. when families had returned home. They said stones allegedly landed in residential areas during the blast, increasing fear and panic among households.
As a result of ongoing mining operations and the resulting air pollution in the community, several residents have reportedly developed respiratory conditions such as asthma. Others are said to be battling high blood pressure, which they attribute to the repeated shockwaves and distress caused by the blasting activities.Many affected residents now make frequent visits to Afe Babalola University Teaching Hospital, the Federal Medical Centre in Owo, and other medical facilities in the area, all while watching their homes and properties continue to suffer damage, the community chairman said.
Many residents described living in constant anxiety, explaining that each blast leaves them uncertain about the safety of their homes and families. Some recounted how building walls have cracked, ceilings weakened, and roofs shaken loose due to repeated vibrations. Beyond the physical destruction, community members emphasized the psychological toll of the operations, particularly on children and elderly residents who are often at home during the day.
Another major grievance raised during the protest is the lack of visible community benefits from the quarry’s presence. Residents claim that despite years of mining in the area, the company has not delivered meaningful developmental support such as road improvements, health assistance, water supply, power supply or educational support.
Community leaders argue that the environmental degradation and safety risks far outweigh any economic value the mining operations may provide.
Protesters called on Governor Lucky Aiyedatiwa, the Ondo State Government, and relevant regulatory agencies to urgently intervene before the situation escalates into tragedy. They stressed that Mercy Land Community has grown significantly over the years and is now a densely populated residential area, making heavy blasting activities nearby increasingly dangerous.
Residents are demanding an immediate suspension of blasting, structural assessments of damaged homes, compensation for affected families, comprehensive environmental and safety audits, and consideration of relocating the quarry away from residential zones.
The situation highlights a broader issue of urban expansion colliding with industrial activity. Mining operations that may once have been distant from settlements are now surrounded by growing communities. Without strict monitoring and updated safety enforcement, the risk of building collapse, injuries, or fatalities increases significantly.
Government regulators have a responsibility to protect lives and property, enforce environmental and mining safety laws, ensure companies operate within approved limits, and prevent avoidable disasters. Ignoring early warning signs in situations like this has in many places led to devastating outcomes, and residents fear their community could be facing a looming tragedy if urgent action is not taken.
In response to the protest, the Director of Ebenezer Quarry Company reportedly visited the community, inspected the level of damage, and promised to repair affected buildings while working toward a lasting solution. However, residents say they want more than assurances.
They are calling for firm government action, clear safety guarantees, and decisive measures to end what they describe as life threatening blasting operations near their homes.
For the people of Mercy Land Community, the protest is about more than damaged buildings. It is about safety, dignity, and the right to live in an environment free from constant fear.
They insist they are not against development, but they do not want development that comes at the cost of their lives and homes.
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