By John Joseph
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Lawmakers in the Kogi State House of Assembly have expressed deep concern over the rising cases of illegal mining activities in the state. According to them, the development is not only worrisome but also a significant threat to the security of the state.
Chairperson of the House Committee on Mining, Hon Omotayo Adeleye, emphasized that the activities of illegal miners have led to increased insecurity in some parts of the state. He noted that these illegal miners often engage in criminal activities, including the possession of dangerous weapons and the use of hard drugs.
Adeleye made these comments during a public hearing on a bill aimed at prohibiting the issuance of mining permits in Kogi State. The bill, which is expected to become law soon, will help track down illegal miners operating in the state and address environmental degradation caused by mining activities.
The lawmaker stressed that the bill is timely and necessary to stop the menace of illegal mining in the state. He urged stakeholders, including traditional rulers, religious leaders, and civil society organizations, to support the passage of the bill into law.
Lawmakers present at the public hearing agreed that a collective effort is required to check the activities of illegal miners in the state. They emphasized that the passage of the bill into law will be a significant step towards addressing the challenges posed by illegal mining in Kogi State.
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