By Abiodun Jimoh
In a significant operation aimed at curbing illegal mining activities, the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC) in Osun State has apprehended five individuals involved in unauthorized mineral extraction.
The suspects, who are reportedly from Kano State, were paraded during a press briefing held at the NSCDC command headquarters in Osogbo, the state capital, where Commandant Kayode Sotiyo addressed the media.
The operation underscores a growing concern over illegal mining’s impact on the environment and local communities. According to Commandant Sotiyo, the suspects were arrested for engaging in mining activities without the requisite licenses, violating the Nigerian Minerals and Mining Act of 2007.
This law mandates that all mining operations must be conducted with a valid mining lease or permit, as specified in Section 2. The NSCDC’s proactive measures reflect an urgent need to address the environmental degradation often associated with illegal mining practices.
“Illegal mining not only undermines the country’s economy but also poses serious risks to our environment and communities,” Commandant Sotiyo stated. He emphasized the importance of adherence to the mining regulations in place to protect both natural resources and public welfare. The commandant indicated that legal actions would be taken against the arrested suspects, highlighting the NSCDC’s commitment to enforcing the law rigorously.
The clandestine nature of illegal mining activities has long been a problematic issue in Nigeria, contributing to significant environmental damage and threatening the livelihoods of those who depend on land-based resources. According to environmental experts, unregulated mining leads to soil erosion, degradation of ecosystems, and pollution of water sources. In an era where sustainable development is paramount, such practices stand in stark contradiction to national and global efforts focused on safeguarding the environment.
Besides the arrests linked to illegal mining, Commandant Sotiyo also disclosed the apprehension of a 34-year-old suspect named Akeju Abiodun, who was caught stealing 220,000 naira from a shop owned by Mrs. Hammed in Ijebu Jesa’s market square. This incident further illustrates the increasing trend of criminal activity in many communities, raising alarms about security and safety in public spaces.
The NSCDC has called upon citizens to remain vigilant and actively report any suspicious activities related to mining. “We cannot do this alone; we need the support of the community to combat illegal mining and other forms of criminality,” Sotiyo emphasized.
Community involvement is crucial in enforcing the rule of law and protecting the nation’s resources, which are vital for sustainable development and economic stability.
In response to the arrests, locals have expressed a mixture of relief and skepticism. Many community members recognize the importance of addressing illegal mining, while others worry that such crackdowns may not be enough to deter determined operatives who prioritize profit over legality.
Stakeholders have called for more robust measures and community engagement to ensure the enforcement of mining laws is effective and consistent.
