Dr. Dele Alake, the Minister of Solid Minerals Development, has promised to thoroughly investigate suspected illegal mining activities in Benue State. He stated that those responsible will face legal consequences.
The minister issued the warning on Friday after hearing from representatives of the affected mining operators and relevant mines inspectorate officials from the state.
A few weeks ago, a video showing 15 trucks carrying minerals, claimed to be uranium and taken from Kwande Local Government, Benue State, became widely circulated.
Following that incident, the minister instructed discreet investigations by the Mines Inspectorate. It was revealed that the video was a result of competition among companies for control of mining areas.
As a result, the minister summoned relevant stakeholders from the state to understand the true situation.
After hearing all submissions, the minister noticed inconsistencies in the accounts presented by representatives of the communities, the operators, and mines inspectorate officials. He pledged to conduct thorough investigations and bring to justice those who may have broken the law.
“I have heard all submissions and noticed discrepancies in presentations by operators and stakeholders. We will comprehensively investigate all aspects related to the incident, and any operator found responsible will have their licenses revoked.
“If some of our officials also colluded to carry out dishonest practices, they will also be prosecuted,” Alake added.
A statement by his Special Assistant on Media, Segun Tomori, also stated that ministry officials caught engaging in such dishonest practices will face legal action.
Meanwhile, the minister has expressed support for the Oyo State Government's plans to obtain mining licenses to stimulate growth in the state.
Alake affirmed this when he welcomed the Oyo State Governor, Seyi Makinde, on a courtesy visit in Abuja.
The minister reiterated his backing for regional entities in the country to enhance the sector and stressed that collaboration with states will advance the mining industry's value chain and promote value addition for maximum benefit to host communities.
Makinde disclosed that his visit was prompted by the state's application for a mining license, and mentioned that Oyo State is close to establishing a state-owned mining corporation.
“I came to provide the minister with the official report on mining activities in Oyo State and update him on efforts to stop illegal mining. Last week, we had to demolish an unauthorized lithium processing facility.
“I took the opportunity to inform him about what happened and to seek his support and cooperation for the mining sector in my state because it is crucial for development,” Makinde added.
The governor revealed that the state is ready to invest in the lithium, gemstones, gold, and marble value chain and has applied for mining licenses to carry out these plans. He also mentioned that the state’s mining company has secured partnerships with investors.
“A good number of investors are coming to the state, and we are helping them, creating a friendly environment to not only make it easier to extract minerals but also to add value by processing raw materials,” he said
