The Federal Government has taken a resolute stance against illegal mining activities in Kogi State, culminating in the impounding of 10 trucks and the prosecution of suspects for their involvement in the illegal possession and transportation of minerals.
As per reports, the Mining Marshals, deployed from the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC), effectively apprehended 10 suspects along the Itobe-Ajokuta Road in Kogi State. These individuals were found to be in possession of minerals without the requisite letter of identification, a direct violation of the Minerals and Mining Act 2007 and Mining Regulations, 2011.
Subsequent investigations revealed that the suspects had procured the minerals from illegal miners in Kogi State, and were unable to furnish evidence of legal mining titles, records, or payment of royalties. Furthermore, certain companies were discovered to have unlawfully engaged third-party agents to procure minerals from the “Awulu” community in Ankpa LGA, Kogi State.
The suspects have been brought before the court and are presently awaiting arraignment. The directors of the implicated companies have also been summoned for questioning, and appropriate measures will be taken against them in accordance with the law.
In response to these events, the Commander of the Mining Marshals, ACC Attah John Onoja, has expressed an unwavering commitment to continuing the operation at full scale to ensure complete compliance with the prevailing laws and regulations governing the mining sector in Nigeria.
Onoja has also emphasized the importance of all stakeholders offering their support to the Honourable Minister of Solid Minerals in his efforts to purify the Nigerian Mining Sector. He has stated that these developments represent a significant stride towards restoring order in the nation’s mining sector and ensuring that mineral resources are exploited in line with the law.
This crackdown is part of the Ministry of Solid Minerals’ comprehensive 7-point agenda aimed at purifying the mining sector and upholding legal standards.
These actions serve as a clear indication of the government’s unwavering commitment to eradicating illegal mining practices, ensuring the proper enforcement of mining laws, and promoting ethical conduct within the industry. It also underscores the importance of compliance with established regulations in order to sustainably harness Nigeria’s abundant mineral resources for the benefit of all.