FROM MIJINYAWA BABA- UTHMAN,MINNA
The Nigerian Bar Association (NBA), Minna Branch, has called on the Niger State Government to urgently investigate allegations of illegal mining activities in the state and their potential links to worsening insecurity.
In an open letter addressed to Governor Umar Muhammad Bago, the Chairman of NBA Minna Branch, Isyaku Barau, Esq., expressed deep concern over reports suggesting that illegal mining operations are being conducted by retired military officers. These allegations were initially raised by former National Chairman of the All Progressives Congress (APC) and serving senator, Senator Adams Oshiomhole, and further corroborated by Hon. Jonathan Vatsa, an APC chieftain in Niger State.
The NBA Minna Branch emphasized that illegal mining is not just an economic crime but also a major driver of insecurity, contributing to violent conflicts, environmental degradation, and economic sabotage. Given the persistent challenges of banditry and violent attacks in the state, the association warned that illegal mining might be fueling criminal activities by providing financial resources to armed groups, enabling unlawful occupation of territories, and undermining government control over mineral resources.
Citing relevant legal provisions, the NBA Minna Branch stressed that both state and federal authorities have the legal mandate to curb illegal mining. The open letter referenced key laws and judicial precedents, including:
• The Nigerian Minerals and Mining Act, 2007, which vests ownership and control of all mineral resources in the Federal Government and criminalizes unauthorized mining activities.
• The 1999 Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, which mandates government authorities to ensure the security and welfare of the people, while also placing mineral resources under federal control.
• The Nigerian Security Agencies Act, 1986, which empowers security agencies such as the Nigerian Police Force and the Department of State Services (DSS) to investigate and prevent acts that threaten national security, including illegal mining.
• Judicial Precedents, including Attorney-General of Lagos State v. Attorney-General of the Federation (2003) and Dangote Cement Plc v. Federal Inland Revenue Service (2021), which reaffirm the need for strict regulatory compliance in business operations, including mining.
To address these concerns, the NBA Minna Branch urged the Niger State Government to take the following decisive actions:
1. Constitute an Investigative Committee – Establish an independent panel comprising security agencies, the Ministry of Solid Minerals, civil society organizations, and other stakeholders to verify these allegations and identify those responsible.
2. Engage the Federal Ministry of Mines and Steel Development – Strengthen collaboration with the Federal Government to enhance monitoring and regulatory enforcement against illegal mining.
3. Enhance Security Measures in Mining Areas – Deploy security operatives to known mining sites to prevent unauthorized operations and ensure that mineral resources are not used to finance criminal activities.
4. Strict Enforcement of Mining Regulations – Implement stringent penalties against defaulters, including revoking licenses of individuals or entities engaged in unauthorized mining and prosecuting offenders.
5. Public Awareness and Community Engagement – Educate local communities on the dangers of illegal mining and the legal framework governing mineral exploration and exploitation.
The NBA Minna Branch emphasized that history will judge Governor Bago’s administration based on its commitment to tackling insecurity and economic sabotage in Niger State. The association reaffirmed its readiness to support all lawful efforts aimed at ensuring peace, security, and sustainable development in the state.
“The Nigerian Bar Association (NBA) Minna Branch stands ready to support all lawful efforts to ensure peace, security, and sustainable development in our dear state. We look forward to your prompt intervention,” the letter concluded.
With insecurity and economic instability posing serious threats to Niger State, the NBA Minna’s call underscores the urgency for immediate and coordinated government action to address illegal mining and its far-reaching consequences.
