The Lagos State Government, through the Ministry of Energy and Mineral Resources, has pledged to enforce and prosecute laws against unlawful mining and dredging in the state.
Abiola Olowu, Special Adviser to the Governor on Energy and Mineral Resources (Office of Mineral Resources), made the commitment in a statement on Friday, noting that the ministry had begun a visitation exercise across the state.
Olowu stated, “As part of the drive to curb illegality in the solid minerals, mining sectors, toll fee, and revenue points, the Ministry of Energy and Mineral Resources, Office of Mineral Resources has commenced a scheduled visitation exercise to all the dredging, mining, toll and revenue points across the five divisions of Lagos State.
“The exercise which commenced on Monday, January 8, 2024, was targeted at curbing illegalities in the solid minerals and mining sectors across the state to a minimal level. The Babajide Sanwo-Olu-led administration will begin enforcement of all relevant laws guiding mining and dredging activities in the state.
“Anyone caught violating the set rules, laws, and guidelines of the dredging and mining in the state will be prosecuted. Therefore, we urge all the dredgers and miners across the state to go obtain all necessary permits and regularise their operations with the Office of Mineral Resources.”
This directive came on the heels of an explosion that occurred in Ibadan on Tuesday due to the activities of illegal miners.
