Governor Lucky Aiyedatiwa of Ondo State has been advised to scrutinize the activities of miners to prevent the recent explosion that killed two, injured scores of residents and destroyed properties in Ibadan, Oyo State.
Aiyedatiwa was also urged to set up a committee that would regulate mining activities and thwart the influx of illegal miners bent on wreaking havoc for unsuspecting residents.
An Abuja-based lawyer, Oluwaseun Adeojo advised in a statement issued to newsmen in Abuja, the nation’s capital.
The legal practitioner who acknowledged that the ingress of the Governor tremendously changed narratives in the state, urged him to eschew bad counsels that would make him tread the path of destruction.
The statement reads, “In light of the escalating concerns surrounding unregulated mining activities, a pressing call to action is directed towards His Excellency, Hon Lucky Aiyedatiwa.
“The current surge in illegal mining activities demands immediate attention, prompting a plea for comprehensive measures to regulate mining operations throughout the state, the Ibadan explosion allegedly caused by Miners is a signal for the state to tighten its belt.
“The foremost recommendation involves the urgent cessation of illegal mining. The call is for the implementation of stringent measures to curb the influx of unauthorized miners, recognizing the severe threats their activities pose to the environment, local communities, and the overall stability of the mining sector.
“Proposing a proactive approach, there is a strong suggestion for the establishment of a dedicated regulatory committee. Comprising experts, environmentalists, and industry representatives, this committee would be tasked with conducting a thorough review of existing mining activities.
“Their mandate extends to formulating robust regulatory frameworks to govern future mining operations within the state.
“Emphasizing the importance of community input, the plea extends to engage in open dialogues with local communities affected by mining operations. Such collaborative efforts aim to ensure that community concerns are addressed, fostering sustainable relationships between miners and residents.
“A critical aspect of the recommended measures is the mandatory implementation of comprehensive environmental impact assessments for all mining projects. This strategic step is envisioned to identify potential environmental risks and facilitate the implementation of effective mitigation measures.
“This call to action underscores the critical need for swift and decisive steps to protect Ondo State’s natural resources, promote sustainable economic development, and prioritize the well-being of its citizens. It rests on the confidence that Governor Aiyedatiwa will demonstrate an unwavering commitment to addressing this matter promptly.
“Outside the state, it is also important for the Federal Government to imbibe the good culture of regulating the activities of Miners. Meanwhile, I commiserate with the families of the victims of the Ibadan explosion. May God grant the families the fortitude to bear the loss.”