The Oyo State Government has intensified its efforts to combat illegal mining and environmental degradation across the state, warning that it will not tolerate activities that threaten the safety and well-being of residents.
The Director-General of the Oyo State Solid Mineral Development Agency (OSMDA), Mr. Abiodun Oni, issued this warning during an inspection visit to areas affected by illegal excavation activities along the Ibadan Circular Road, spanning Egbeda and Lagelu Local Government Areas.
Oni said the inspection followed a previous visit by Governor Seyi Makinde, during which he ordered an immediate halt to the harmful activities.
He expressed concern over the environmental damage already caused and the significant financial burden it would place on the state to repair.
“About a few weeks ago, the governor had an inspection around here and discovered the kind of illegal mining activities going on. We found out the kind of environmental degradation happening here,” Oni said.
He added that earlier visits by teams from the Ministry and Agency resulted in direct engagements with those responsible for the illegal excavation.
“So far, the engagement is yielding some results, because we have travelled about 8.5 km and we have not seen anybody excavating here,” Oni noted.
“However, this is going to be a continuous exercise, because illegal miners don’t give up. We will continue to monitor the area to ensure this activity stops.”
Oni emphasized that despite mining being under the federal government’s purview, the Oyo State Government had legal grounds to act, citing the Executive Order on the Security and Protection of Mining Communities signed by the governor in 2023.
“If they continue to do this, we have to take action. The Executive Order gives us room for consequential responses and we will enforce the law. Though they have done what they have done, we will make sure they don’t continue. Just look at the land. It will cost a lot more to reclaim it,” he added.
In a related development, the OSMDA DG and his team also visited Igbeti in Olorunsogo Local Government Area to inspect the site of recent rock weathering, which had initially caused panic among residents.
Oni assured the community that there was no immediate cause for alarm, attributing the rock’s collapse to extreme heat that weakened its structure. However, he cautioned residents against approaching the area until authorities confirm it is safe.
“To the glory of God, we don’t have any casualties. That is one of the reasons why the governor sent us here, to calm nerves,” Oni said. “We’ve reassured the people that there’s no danger, but they should steer clear of the rock because a recurrence is possible.”
He added that the state government is coordinating with local authorities and traditional leaders to ensure community safety and compliance with directives.
Also speaking, the Vice Chairman of Olorunsogo Local Government, on behalf of Chairman Hon. Kazeem Olayanju, confirmed that the council had taken steps to inform the public through the traditional institution. He disclosed plans to erect barricades around the affected area to prevent access.
The Onigbeti of Igbetiland, Oba (Engr) Bashir Abioye, praised the state government’s swift intervention. He revealed that a similar incident occurred last year and that a team of experts had been assigned to evaluate the situation.
“This incident also occurred last year and the one that just happened is a continuation. The government has taken necessary steps to ensure no lives are lost. We’ve advised hunters and farmers to stay away temporarily,” the monarch said.
He expressed confidence in the state government’s capacity to resolve the situation, emphasizing the administration’s commitment to protecting lives and property.
Through these interventions, the Oyo State Government has reiterated its zero-tolerance stance on illegal mining and its resolve to safeguard the environment and lives of residents.
The public has also been urged to remain vigilant and report suspicious activities that may endanger their communities.