The Federal Government has issued a stern warning to landowners involved in illegal mining activities. Dele Alake, the Minister of Solid Minerals Development, conveyed this warning through a statement from his Special Assistant on Media, Segun Tomori, on Saturday in Abuja.
Why It Matters
This warning comes in the wake of a tragic mining accident that resulted in the death of three individuals in Bazakwoi, Paikoro local government area of Niger State. Just days earlier, a similar incident claimed the lives of at least 30 people in Galadima Kogo, Shiroro LGA, on June 3. The recurrence of such incidents highlights the severe risks associated with illegal mining operations.
Official Response
Minister Alake emphasized that landowners who allow illegal mining activities on their licensed properties will face severe consequences, including the revocation of their land titles. Preliminary investigations revealed that the collapsed mine was located in an area under Exploration Licence 43113, belonging to JURASSIC MINES Limited in Adunu Village, Paikoro LGA. It was further discovered that the miners involved were operating without proper authorization.
Statements from Authorities
The statement from the ministry detailed the immediate actions taken following the accident:
“The ministry promptly mobilized its mine officers, who arrived at the site around 6:15 p.m. Officials were informed that three men were killed in the accident and have since been buried. At the time of the visit, work had stopped at the site, and only onlookers were seen. The coordinates of the site were taken, and officials returned to Minna at about 8:30 p.m. The owners of the company were contacted by phone, but they claimed ignorance of happenings at the site. They were then summoned to the office in the state capital.”
Bottom Line
The Federal Government is taking a firm stance against illegal mining to prevent further loss of life and ensure the safety of mining operations. Landowners are urged to ensure compliance with legal mining regulations or risk losing their land titles. The recent fatalities underscore the urgent need for stricter enforcement and oversight in the mining sector.
