Ensuring a thorough investigation into alleged illegal mining activities in Benue State, the Minister of Solid Minerals Development, Dr. Dele Alake, has issued a stern warning. He stated that individuals found to be involved will face severe consequences as per the law.
On Friday, following submissions from representatives of affected mining operators and relevant mines inspectorate officials from the state, the minister made this declaration.
Several weeks ago, a video surfaced showing 15 trucks loaded with minerals, purportedly uranium extracted from Kwande Local Government in Benue State, creating a stir.
In response, the minister initiated a discreet investigation by the Mines Inspectorate, revealing that the incident stemmed from rivalry between firms seeking control of mining areas.
This led the minister to convene stakeholders from the state to gather accurate information on the situation.
After evaluating all submissions, the minister observed inconsistencies in the information provided by community representatives, operators, and mines inspectorate officials. He vowed to conduct meticulous investigations and hold accountable anyone found in violation of the law.
“Having carefully considered all submissions and noted disparities in presentations, we are committed to thoroughly probing all aspects of the incident. Any operator found guilty will have their licenses revoked,” he stated.
“Furthermore, if any of our officials were complicit in unethical practices, they will face legal repercussions,” added Alake.
A statement from his Special Assistant on Media, Segun Tomori, reiterated that ministry officials found engaging in such misconduct would face legal consequences.
Meanwhile, the minister expressed support for the Oyo State Government’s initiative to acquire mining licenses to boost development in the state.
The assurance was given during a courtesy visit to Abuja by Oyo State Governor, Seyi Makinde.
Alake reaffirmed his backing for sub-national entities to enhance the sector’s growth, emphasizing that collaboration with states would promote the mining industry’s value chain and enhance value addition for the benefit of local communities.
In his remarks, Makinde disclosed that his visit aimed to follow up on the state’s mining license application, as Oyo State is planning to establish a state-owned mining corporation.
“I presented the minister with a report on mining activities in Oyo State and updates on efforts to combat illegal mining, including the demolition of an unauthorized lithium processing facility last week,” he noted.
“I took the opportunity to update him and seek support for the mining sector in my state as a driver of development,” added Makinde.
The governor outlined the state’s plans to invest in the lithium, gemstones, gold, and marble value chain, having applied for mining licenses to drive these initiatives, alongside securing investor partnerships for the state’s mining company.
“We have numerous investors coming in and we are providing a conducive environment to facilitate mineral extraction and value addition through material processing,” he concluded.