The Threat of Illegal Mining Exposed by Ibadan Explosion

The recent explosion in Ibadan has underscored the severe security risks associated with unlawful mining activities in Nigeria. Former member of the House of Representatives, Hon. Tajudeen Yusuf, has expressed his apprehensions regarding the imperative requirement for inter-agency collaboration to tackle this issue and avert impending tragedies.

Yusuf has underscored the significance of federal-level synchronization among security agencies to combat the widespread unlawful mining activities carried out by both foreign nationals and their Nigerian counterparts. The explosion in Ibadan resulted in loss of life, injuries, and extensive property damage, thus accentuating the devastating impact of such occurrences.

He has commended the prompt emergency responses from Governor Seyi Makinde, the Oyo State House of Assembly, and the state’s Emergency Management Agency. Nevertheless, he has emphasized the necessity for a more proactive approach to addressing the security threats posed by illegal mining.

Yusuf has pointed out that illegal miners are engaged in various criminal activities, including possession of firearms, ammunition, and explosives, as well as tax evasion. He has also highlighted the economic significance of gemstone mining in Oyo State and the potential for revenue generation and employment opportunities.

While acknowledging the efforts of the Oyo State Government in revenue generation and welfare programs, Yusuf has stressed the importance of vigilance and cooperation among all stakeholders to prevent the exploitation of Nigeria’s natural resources by foreign and domestic illegal miners.

Moreover, in addition to the prompt response to the explosion, Yusuf has lauded the actions of security agencies, the National Emergency Management Agency (NEMA), and the Oyo State Emergency Management Agency (SEMA) in deploying manpower to the scene of the incident. However, he has reiterated that more comprehensive measures are imperative to address the pervasive issue of unlawful mining.

Yusuf has emphasized the need to ensure compliance with ECOWAS protocols on free movement and trade while cracking down on the illegal activities of foreign and domestic illegal miners. He has highlighted the illegal exportation of solid minerals, tax evasion, and the alleged support of armed bandit groups by these entities.

In conclusion, Yusuf’s insights have shed light on the urgent necessity for concerted efforts at the federal and state levels to address the security threats posed by illegal mining. The Ibadan explosion serves as a stark reminder of the devastating consequences of these illicit activities, and it is imperative that immediate steps are taken to prevent similar incidents in the future.