Host communities of the dormant Nigerian Cement Company (Nigercem) in Ebonyi State have voiced strong concerns over the state government’s proposed establishment of a new cement plant, warning that the move could infringe on existing land rights and settled legal agreements.
The communities cautioned that proceeding with the project without broad stakeholder engagement may undermine the lawful status and future revival of Nigercem Plc. They have formally appealed to the Ebonyi State Government to suspend any action capable of altering mineral ownership or control in the affected areas pending comprehensive consultations.
In a letter dated January 7, 2026, addressed to Governor Francis Nwifuru, the communities—through their legal representatives, Gamzaki Law Chambers—alleged that certain political interests are attempting to disregard subsisting court judgments and binding agreements governing Nigercem.
According to the letter, Ibeto Group legally acquired majority shares in Nigercem Plc in 2010 and became its core investor. The communities recalled that the subsequent revocation of Ibeto Group’s mining lease by a former Ebonyi State administration was contested in court, with rulings between 2010 and 2013 reportedly delivered in favour of Ibeto Group and the host communities.
They further noted that during the 2023 election campaign, assurances were made by the current administration to partner with Ibeto Group to resuscitate Nigercem. While acknowledging the constitution of a 15-member committee in August 2025 to engage stakeholders, the communities expressed concern that no official report or recommendations from the committee have been released to the public.
Tensions escalated following Governor Nwifuru’s announcement during the 2026 budget presentation that the state plans to borrow ₦150 billion to build a new government-owned cement plant. The communities also raised alarm over a meeting held on December 31, 2025, where some individuals allegedly issued a fresh “consent letter” said to nullify previous agreements granted to Ibeto Group.
The landlord communities argued that the proposed site for the new cement factory lacks commercially viable limestone deposits, insisting that any such project would inevitably rely on limestone reserves located within Nigercem host communities. They also rejected the legitimacy of what they described as an “unauthorised and self-appointed committee” claiming to represent their interests.
The development adds to growing debates around industrial expansion, mineral rights, and investment security in Ebonyi State, as stakeholders call for transparency, respect for court rulings, and inclusive decision-making.
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