Miners back FG, Kogi on illegal mining clampdown

The Licensed and legal Coal Miners in Kogi State have hailed the Federal and State Governments over its recent clampdown on the activities of illegal miners in the state.

The miners, in a statement, said they were delighted that the Federal and State Governments were working hand-in-hand to flush out illegal miners in the state.

The statement read in part, “We the Licensed and legal Coal Miners in Kogi State hereby issue this press statement to express our support for and earnest appreciation to the President of The Federal Government of Nigeria, His Excellency, Alhaji Bola Ahmed Tinubu, the Minster of Solid Mineral Development, Dele Alake and the Executive Governor of Kogi State, Yahaya Bello.”

The miners also hailed security agencies that were coordinating the operation for taking up the fight against illegal miners whose activities have left a negative impact on the economy and security of the country.

Earlier, the Kogi State said that it had seized 21 trucks loaded with coal, amounting to 945 tonnes, all of which were products of illegal mining.

The action followed an announcement by the Minister of Solid Mineral Development, Dele Alake of a ban on illegal mining activities by the Federal Government.

The state government said, “On 18 December 2023, Kogi State Government sprang into action with a corresponding enforcement action by setting up a Joint Taskforce comprising Police, NSCDC, The State Security Service, Federal Mines Office, Kogi State, State Ministry of Solid Minerals and Natural Resources and Kogi State Vigilante Service.

“Between December 18, 2023, and January 7, 2024, a total of 21 trucks loaded with coal, amounting to Nine hundred and forty-five tons, being the product of illegal mining, were impounded.”