The Menace of Illegal Mining: Minister Dele Alake Receives Threats Over Explosive Revelation
Minister of Solid Minerals, Dele Alake, has made a startling revelation about the involvement of influential figures in funding banditry associated with illegal mining in Nigeria. Following his bold disclosure, he has received threatening messages that pose a risk to his life.
While on an on-the-spot assessment of the aftermath of an explosion in Ibadan that resulted in the loss of five lives and the destruction of properties worth billions of naira, Alake disclosed that the threats began after his comments at the National Assembly regarding the connections between powerful individuals and illegal mining-related banditry.
Minister Alake addressed the situation by stating, “I expressed my concerns openly during my Ministry’s budget defence at the National Assembly about the role of powerful Nigerians in the banditry associated with illegal mining. Since making this disclosure, there have been threats against me, but we refuse to be intimidated because the truth must be disclosed.”
He continued, “I have not revealed anything that was not already known. Many people were already aware of this issue and were speaking out about it. I simply provided official validation based on the intelligence report. Collusion exists at various levels of society, from high-ranking individuals to those in the middle and lower strata. It is not confined to the upper echelons alone.”
In response to the pressing issue, the Minister shared that the government is implementing both kinetic and non-kinetic strategies to address the problem. He also emphasised that the Federal government is collaborating with key stakeholders at the state, local government, and host community levels to put an end to the activities of illegal miners.
Highlighting the importance of involving host communities, Alake stressed, “The participation of host communities is essential because, ultimately, any security strategy we develop must include the individuals on the ground who possess detailed knowledge of the local terrain. We cannot overlook their contribution.”
He further illustrated the severity of the situation by explaining, “The bandits, sponsored by influential Nigerians, are equipped with substantial funding and heavy weaponry, including landmines strategically placed in the forest to counter our ground forces. This is why the military’s presence, involvement, and engagement are crucial.”
Shifting focus to the Ibadan explosion, Alake expressed dismay at the stockpiling of explosives in a residential area. While discussions are ongoing, he cautioned against premature conclusions, stating, “It would be hasty for the Federal government to make definitive statements about this incident until we have examined all forensic analysis reports, investigations from various security agencies, and the Mines Inspectorate division of the Ministry of Solid Minerals.”
In conclusion, the Minister assured that justice would be served to anyone found responsible, regardless of their standing in society.
Source: Nigerian Tribune
