The Federal Government of Nigeria has issued a stern warning to landowners against engaging in or permitting illegal mining activities on their properties. This warning was conveyed by the Minister of Solid Minerals Development, Dele Alake, through a statement released by his Special Assistant on Media, Segun Tomori, on Saturday in Abuja.
The warning came in the wake of a tragic incident where three individuals lost their lives due to the collapse of a mining tunnel at Bazakwoi in Paikoro Local Government Area (LGA) of Niger State. This incident followed a previous collapse on June 3 in Galadima Kogo, Shiroro LGA, which resulted in the deaths of at least 30 people.
Minister Alake emphasized that landowners who allow illegal mining on their licenced plots will face severe consequences, including the potential loss of their land titles. Preliminary investigations revealed that the recent collapse occurred in an area under Exploration Licence 43113, held by JURASSIC MINES Limited in Adunu Village, Paikoro LGA. The minister noted that the miners involved were operating illegally, highlighting the risks and dangers associated with unregulated mining activities.
The minister’s statement underscores the government’s commitment to curbing illegal mining practices and ensuring the safety of all individuals involved in mining operations. By taking a firm stance against illegal activities, the government aims to protect both the environment and the lives of those in mining communities.
The statement read: “The ministry promptly mobilised 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 in the site. They were then summoned to the office in the state capital.”
