Government Agencies Clash Over Illegal Mining and Child Labor Issues in Ondo State
The residents of Canaan Land in Ondo state are currently grappling with a significant challenge stemming from the deplorable condition of their road, which they attribute to the actions of tipper drivers who have left it in a state of disrepair. However, the issues they face extend beyond the mere presence of poor road conditions. A small-scale illicit quarry situated in Ijigba, Ondo state is causing considerable harm to the environment, resulting in erosion and the destruction of residences in the vicinity.
Multiple reports have indicated that the quarry is not only operating outside the bounds of the law, but is also utilizing child labour, with minors employed at the site without proper safety equipment. This represents a blatant violation of the Child Rights Act of 2003, which expressly prohibits the employment of children under such hazardous circumstances.
The ownership of the quarry remains shrouded in mystery, and despite efforts to ascertain the true proprietors, it has come to light that a family headed by an individual known as Omojesu is claiming possession of the land and is responsible for the activities conducted at the site.
This state of affairs has led to a conflict between government entities, with the Ondo State Environmental Protection Agency admonishing the Federal Ministry of Mines and Solid Minerals for its failure to regulate the operations of small-scale miners in the state. This dispute has served to further complicate the endeavours aimed at addressing the issues of illicit mining and child labour.
As the authorities continue to dispute over jurisdiction, the inhabitants of Canaan Land are left to bear the consequences of environmental degradation and the deterioration of their road. It is evident that the ongoing conflict between government agencies is not only obstructing the resolution of these issues, but is also exacerbating environmental harm and putting the lives of children involved in illegal mining activities at risk.
