Within Ososo, Akoko-Edo Local Government Area, the Edo State Government has issued a seven-day ultimatum to illegal gold miners at Egbetual autonomous community, demanding that they leave the area promptly or confront the full force of the law.
During a meeting with chiefs and elders of the community over the weekend, the Edo State Commissioner for Mining and Energy, Enaholo Ojiefoh, delivered the ultimatum, declaring that the state government maintains zero tolerance for criminal activities and illegal actions.
Ojiefoh emphasized the significance of the region’s growth and development to the state government, highlighting that all mining licenses would be reviewed before authorizing gold mining undertakings in the vicinity.
He cautioned individuals involved in aiding the illegal miners, whether by providing supplies or facilitating access to the mining sites, that their actions will not go unpunished. The state government has mobilized various security agencies to enforce the directive and eradicate the unlawful activities.
Regarding the exploitation of mineral resources for criminal acts like kidnapping and assault, Ojiefoh stressed the urgent need to address this issue before allowing any further mining operations to proceed.
The state government intends to collaborate with legal mining enterprises by attracting investors for the region’s enhancement and prosperity. Ojiefoh warned that any mining activities conducted without community consent would result in license revocation.
Chief Peter Momoh, the Head-Chief of Egbetua Community, expressed gratitude for the state government’s intervention, asserting that it would significantly deter illegal mining and associated criminal behaviors in the area.
Promising to spread the government’s warning through the community town crier before the ultimatum ends, Chief Momoh acknowledged the community’s plea for assistance in curbing illegal mining activities that have plagued the area for years.
It was reported that gold mining has been ongoing in the vicinity for more than two decades, situated within the Odo bush, approximately 15 kilometers from the main Ososo town.