The Oyo State Government has taken decisive action by sealing mining sites operating without consent letters and community development agreements.
This move was executed by the Oyo State Mineral Development Agency on Friday, as revealed by the Director General of the Agency, Abiodun Oni, in Ibadan after the operation. The decision to seal these sites without proper documentation is aimed at restoring order and putting an end to illegal activities in the mining sector.
The government’s focus on compliance with consent letters and community development agreements underscores its commitment to ensuring responsible and regulated mining practices in the interest of the state.
“The sites sealed are Sequia Mining Industry and Eminent Quarry.
“Prior to this time, the agency requested consent letters, community development agreements and other relevant documents that legalize the operation of every mining industry in the state.
“The state government under the leadership of His Excellency Engr Seyi Makinde is ready to partner with all stakeholders to sanitize the Oyo State mining sector as contained in the Mining Act and all relevant Laws.
“This was the reason for the verification of the relevant documents, by the Oyo State government.”
The DG maintained that the agency would not condone any act of illegality.
He added that the governor has signed an Executive Order, which gives the agency the power to seal any mining industries that fail to comply with the rules and regulations guiding the sector.
The coordinating Director of the Agency, Jolade Omidiran urged miners and all relevant stakeholders to submit their documents before the enforcement team gets to their site.