The Nigerian government has secured a significant victory in its fight against illegal mining with the conviction of Mahmud Usman, a commander of the Ansaru terrorist group. In a statement issued by the Minister of Solid Minerals Development, Dr. Dele Alake, through his Special Assistant on Media, Segun Tomori, Usman’s conviction was described as a major blow to illicit mining activities in the country.
On September 11, the Federal High Court in Abuja sentenced Usman to 15 years’ imprisonment for engaging in illegal mining. Justice Emeka Nwite handed down the sentence after Usman pleaded guilty to count 10 of the 32‑count terrorism charge preferred against him. His deputy commander, Abubakar Abba, was also implicated in the suit. The duo was accused of mining precious minerals—including thunder stones and California stones—without lawful authority between 2015 and 2025.
Dr. Alake praised the judiciary for its support in combating illegal mining, noting that the verdict demonstrates how bandits use illicit mining to fund their operations. He affirmed that the ministry will continue tightening the noose around mining illegalities, with more drastic measures to be announced soon. The minister also expressed appreciation for the Directorate of State Services’ efforts in monitoring, detecting, and arresting terrorists.
The Ministry of Solid Minerals Development will closely monitor the 31 pending terrorism cases against Ansaru commanders to draw lessons for strengthening the fight against illegal mining. Dr. Alake emphasized the need for inter‑agency collaboration to increase surveillance and eradicate illegal mining perpetrated by bandits. This development aligns with earlier statements by the minister and Senator Adams Oshiomhole that powerful illegal miners were sponsoring banditry.
In 2024, Dr. Alake established the Mining Marshals, a security unit drawn from the Nigerian Security and Civil Defence Corps, to secure mining sites across the country following a surge in illegal mining activities. The conviction of Usman and the ongoing anti‑mining initiatives demonstrate the government’s commitment to addressing the issue and ensuring that mineral resources are exploited lawfully and sustainably.
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