Minister Urges Kogi Youths to Demand Action Against Illegal Mining

Dele Alake, the Minister of Solid Minerals Development, has called on youths in Kogi State to urge their leaders to stop shielding illegal miners, emphasizing the urgent need to protect the environment. 

Speaking to the Concerned Kogi Youths Against Environmental Degradation during a protest at the Ministry, Alake thanked the group for their commitment to combating illegal mining activities.

The Minister highlighted that Kogi State has been a focal point for illegal mining, recalling a significant operation that dislodged illegal miners in the Yagba East Local Government area. He noted that investigations have revealed that many illegal miners are locals operating with the support of community leaders.

“The Marshals have aided many companies in expelling illegal miners and prosecuting them,” Alake stated, mentioning that 374 illegal mining sites had been identified since March 2024, with 108 already cleared.

The government has arrested 743 suspects and is prosecuting 165 cases, securing five convictions. Alake emphasized that illegal mining is detrimental to licensed mining companies, which pay for licenses and royalties while illegal miners do not.

He warned that time is running out for illegal miners and their collaborators, asserting that the ongoing deployment of technology and enforcement measures will soon leave no hiding place for these criminals.

Alake urged Kogi youths to take this message to their community leaders, encouraging them to support enforcement efforts against illegal mining activities.

The protest coordinator, Comrade Isaiah Davies Ijele, highlighted the environmental degradation caused by mining in the Ankpa and Omala communities, including damaged roads, polluted water sources, and worsened living conditions.

Ijele urged the minister to launch investigations into mining activities in these areas and deploy inspectors to enforce regulations.

In response, Dr. Vivian Okono, Director of Mining Environmental Compliance, announced that the ministry is compiling a list of mining companies failing to adhere to Community Development Agreements (CDAs), which will be published along with penalties for non-compliance.

With the government taking a firm stance against illegal mining, the call for community involvement is crucial for safeguarding Kogi's environment and resources.