In a notable show of solidarity, licensed and legal coal miners in Kogi State have thrown their weight behind the recent crackdown on illegal mining orchestrated by both the federal and state governments. The miners, represented by Innocent Ezuma, the Executive Chairman of Etazuma Mining and Industries Limited, expressed their resolute support for the coordinated efforts aimed at flushing out illegal miners from the state.
In a statement released, the miners lauded the seamless collaboration between the federal and state governments, emphasizing their satisfaction with the joint initiative to rid the country of illicit mining activities. Quoting the Executive Chairman, the statement conveyed their gratitude to the President of The Federal Government of Nigeria, His Excellency Alhaji Bola Ahmed Tinubu, the Minister of Solid Mineral Development, Dele Alake, and the Executive Governor of Kogi State, Yahaya Bello for their decisive actions in this regard.
This stance from the licensed miners comes in the wake of the Kogi State Government’s seizure of 21 trucks loaded with coal, totaling 945 tonnes, which was sourced from illegal mining operations. The move to impound these trucks aligns with the Federal Government’s ban on illegal mining activities, as announced by Minister Dele Alake.
Notably, the crackdown on illegal mining gains significance following a tragic explosion in Ibadan, Oyo State, which authorities attribute to illegal mining and resulted in the loss of at least three lives. The swift action taken by the government, with the backing of licensed miners, underscores the collective resolve to curb illicit mining practices and prioritize safety measures in the mining sector.
