The Edo State government has issued a stern ultimatum to illegal miners operating in the Egbetua Autonomous Community in Ososo, Akoko-Edo Local Area, ordering them to vacate the site within seven days.
This ultimatum comes as a response to the concerns raised by the community regarding the environmental degradation and increased criminal activities associated with illegal mining operations.
The head chief of the Egbetua community, Chief Peter Momoh, confirmed the presence of illegal gold miners in the area and emphasized the need for government intervention.
He highlighted the adverse effects of illegal mining, including environmental degradation and a rise in criminal activities such as kidnapping.
In efforts to address the situation, the community issued a quit notice to the illegal miners, and subsequently, a letter was sent to Governor Godwin Obaseki seeking government intervention.
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The state Commissioner for Mining and Energy, Enaholo Ojiefoh, led a team to meet with community leaders and elders, where the ultimatum was delivered on behalf of the governor.
Commissioner Ojiefoh reiterated the government’s commitment to the development of the locality and emphasized zero tolerance for crime and illegalities.
He warned individuals involved in illegal mining activities to vacate the area within seven days, stating that security agencies would be deployed to enforce the order.
The commissioner highlighted the need to flush out illegal miners who exploit solid minerals while engaging in criminal activities.
He assured the community of the government’s support and collaboration with legal mining companies and investors to promote development in the area.
Chief Peter Momoh expressed appreciation for the state government’s intervention, signaling hope for positive outcomes from the decisive action taken against illegal mining activities.
