In a decisive move to combat the rising illegal mining activities in Ondo State, the state government has intensified efforts by empowering its security task force to work alongside security agencies. This collaborative effort aims to rid the state of criminals involved in the theft of solid minerals.
Last weekend, a significant breakthrough was achieved when a joint operation between the Ondo State security task force and the Nigerian Army led to the arrest of 12 individuals engaged in illegal mining activities. The operation, which was based on credible intelligence, was part of a broader strategy to address security challenges, including kidnapping, within the state.
While briefing the press on this development, Mr. Olugbenga Atiba, the Senior Special Assistant on Security to Governor Lucky Orimisan Aiyedatiwa, emphasized the government’s proactive stance. “We had our men deployed across the three senatorial districts of Ondo, penetrating deep into the jungles to prevent kidnapping and make arrests where possible,” Atiba stated during the parade of the suspects at the 32 Artillery Brigade Barracks in Akure.
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He further revealed the extent of the illegal operations, noting, “We know the destruction that has been caused in Niger State by these illegal miners. The kingpins are from Niger and Zamfara.”
The State’s Commissioner for Energy and Mineral Resources, Engr. Razaq Obe, also shed light on the regulatory framework overseeing mining in the state. “There is a federal law, the Mining Act 2007, that governs mining activities across the country,” Obe explained. He added, “Security is a major concern. Illegal miners, often from other countries, operate without licenses, leading to environmental degradation and increased security threats.”
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Obe also called for the decentralization of mining governance, arguing that “Mining stewardship should not be on the exclusive list of our constitution. It should be ceded to subnational entities, as governors are better positioned to know what is happening in their states.”
The arrested individuals are currently in custody, awaiting further legal actions.