Kogi Govt Cracks Down on Illegal Mining as Commissioner Arrests Two Gold Miners in Irutuba
By our Reporter
The Kogi State Government has intensified its crackdown on illegal mining activities, following the arrest of two suspected illegal gold miners during an enforcement operation led by the Commissioner for Solid Minerals and Natural Resources, Engr. Abubakar Bashir Gegu, in Irutuba Village, Okene Local Government Area.
The operation, conducted as part of the state government’s efforts to curb illegal exploitation of mineral resources, reportedly led to the apprehension of Abdulrahaman Nuhuramat and Yusuf Ramat at an alleged illegal mining site on community land.
The suspects have been handed over to the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC) for further investigation and possible prosecution, according to a statement issued by Muhammed Jamiu, Special Assistant on Media and Publicity to the Commissioner.
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Speaking with journalists during the operation, Gegu said the administration of Governor Ahmed Usman Ododo would not tolerate illegal mining, describing the practice as economic sabotage and a potential threat to the environment and peaceful coexistence in host communities.
He warned individuals involved in unauthorised mining activities across the state to desist, stressing that mineral resources must be exploited through lawful means for the benefit of the people.
“This government will find you wherever you are. Our mineral resources must be harnessed legally for the prosperity of our people, not looted by criminal elements,” the Commissioner warned.
Meanwhile, the Village Head of Irutuba, Mallam Adams Shuaibu, who received the Commissioner and his team, commended the state government for responding to the community’s concerns over illegal mining and alleged land encroachment.
Shuaibu lamented that the activities of illegal miners and land grabbers had become a source of concern for residents, alleging that outsiders continued to trespass on their ancestral lands in search of gold.
The traditional ruler appealed to Governor Ododo to provide additional security for the community to prevent further encroachment on its land and the destruction of farmlands.
He stressed the need for sustained government intervention to protect the community’s ancestral heritage, agricultural activities and property rights.
Responding to the concerns, Gegu assured the people of Irutuba that their complaints had been noted and would be conveyed to the Governor for necessary attention.
He added that the Ministry of Solid Minerals and Natural Resources would collaborate with relevant security agencies to protect the legitimate rights of host communities and ensure that mining activities complied with applicable laws and regulations.
The Commissioner also urged traditional rulers, community leaders and residents across Kogi State to report suspected illegal mining operations in their respective areas to enable security agencies and relevant government authorities to take appropriate action.
The operation forms part of the state government’s stated efforts to regulate mining activities, protect community lands and ensure that the exploitation of mineral resources contributes to sustainable development rather than exposing host communities to environmental degradation and insecurity.
The statement was signed by Muhammed Jamiu, Special Assistant on Media and Publicity to the Honourable Commissioner for Solid Minerals and Natural Resources, Kogi State.
DemocracyNewslineNewspaper October 12th, 2026
