It is troubling to note that despite the increasing public concern surrounding unregulated mining activities on the campus of Obafemi Awolowo University (OAU), the Federal Ministry of Solid Minerals has chosen to remain conspicuously silent on the matter. This prolonged silence from the Ministry, and specifically the Minister of Solid Minerals, appears to indicate a troubling level of complacency and possibly even collusion in putting the lives of both students and staff at OAU at risk through unregulated mining activities.
The potential consequences of this unregulated mining are alarmingly evident, with reports of gold contamination in the University dam, which serves as a crucial water source for the university community. The implications of this contamination should raise legitimate concerns and prompt swift and decisive action from relevant authorities. However, the lack of response from the Ministry of Solid Minerals leaves much to be desired in terms of accountability and responsibility.
While the miners have ceased their activities in response to public outcry, it is crucial that the responsible parties are held accountable, and examples are made of those involved in this illegal and hazardous activity. The encroachment of the University’s land for mining purposes is a serious issue that cannot be overlooked.
Furthermore, the matter of whether the 11 licensed mining companies operating on the OAU campus have been compliant in paying revenue to the federal government remains another critical point of concern. The fact that sections of the University’s land were encroached upon without the consent of the management is a clear display of audacity and disregard for due process.
The Nigerian Minerals and Mining Act of 2007 clearly outlines the procedures and regulations governing mining activities, including the requirement for prior notice to lawful occupiers, payment of compensation for damages, and adherence to environmental considerations. The University management has a duty to demand accountability from the Ministry of Solid Minerals in identifying the licensed companies that have operated without consent and take decisive action against them.
The detrimental environmental impact resulting from the unregulated mining activities further emphasizes the urgency for intervention. The neglect of environmental safeguards and ethical mining practices has led to extensive land degradation, with far-reaching consequences for the community. The neglect of obligations outlined in the Nigerian Minerals and Mining Act, 2007, is a severe violation that warrants immediate attention and action.
In light of these pressing concerns, it is imperative that the University management applies pressure on the Ministry of Solid Minerals to hold the licensed companies accountable for their actions and address the violations. The unequivocal requirement for environmental protection, rehabilitation, and due compensation for damages must be upheld to mitigate the lasting impact of these reckless and illegal mining activities.
The silence of the Ministry of Solid Minerals on this matter is unacceptable, and the management of OAU must assertively pursue the necessary actions to address this issue. The failure to hold the responsible parties accountable not only perpetuates an alarming disregard for the rule of law but also compromises the safety and well-being of the university community.
Authored by Kazeem Olalekan Israel of OAU, Ile-Ife.