Miners in Kogi State Show Support for Crackdown on Illegal Mining

In recent developments, licensed and legal coal miners in Kogi State have expressed their approval of the coordinated efforts of the federal and state governments to crack down on illegal mining activities in the region. The miners, under the leadership of Innocent Ezuma, Executive Chairman of Etazuma Mining and Industries Limited, issued a statement commending the governments for their united front in addressing the issue.

The statement, which was released to the press, conveyed the miners’ satisfaction with the joint efforts of the federal and state governments to eliminate illegal mining. It also expressed their gratitude to President Mohamed Buhari, Minister of Solid Mineral Development, Dele Alake, and Kogi State Governor, Yahaya Bello, for their commitment to addressing the problem.

This show of support from the miners follows the announcement by the Kogi State Government concerning the seizure of 21 coal-laden trucks, totaling 945 tonnes, confiscated from illegal mining activities. The state government’s action is in line with the ban on illegal mining proclaimed by Minister Dele Alake on behalf of the Federal Government.

The urgency to address illegal mining activities has been underscored by recent events, most notably the tragic explosion in Ibadan, Oyo State, which claimed the lives of at least three individuals. Illegal miners were implicated in the devastating incident, shedding light on the critical need to curtail their activities.

This united front between the government and licensed miners represents a significant step towards addressing the issue of illegal mining in Nigeria. With the support of key stakeholders and the implementation of stringent measures, the eradication of illegal mining activities seems within reach.

The authorities’ decisive actions and the unwavering support of licensed miners signal a promising turnaround in the fight against illegal mining, emphasizing the importance of collaboration and enforcement in safeguarding lives and resources.