NESREA has sealed the Cornerstone quarry in Abuja after an explosive blast sent rocks into a nearby school, injuring 13 people and damaging structures in violation of national quarry regulations.
The National Environmental Standards and Regulations Enforcement Agency (NESREA) has shut down the Cornerstone quarry facility in Dutse, Abuja, after an explosive blast sent rocks flying into Graceland High School, injuring “11 students and two staff of the school” and damaging classrooms and nearby shops. NESREA said the blast, carried out by Istanbul Quarry, disrupted examinations and caused “life-threatening” harm, prompting an immediate shutdown following a preliminary investigation that found violations of the National Environmental (Quarrying and Blasting Operations) Regulations 2013.
Deputy Director Glory Uboh said the quarry “will be sanctioned” for contradicting approved operating procedures, adding that further investigations are underway and sanctions would be fully enforced. The agency stressed that the incident highlights the dangers of poorly regulated quarrying in populated areas and the need for strict adherence to environmental and safety standards.