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The Edo State Ministry of Mining, in conjunction with the Federal Ministry of Solid Minerals Development, has shut down two illegal mining sites in the state.
This was disclosed on Friday in a press statement released by the Public Relations Officer of the Edo State Ministry of Mining, Grace Oakhiena.
According to the statement, the sites in Erhua Community near Ehor in Edo South and Iruekpen Community in Edo Central were shut down on Wednesday after an inspection.
The sites were also found to be operating without proper licences and in blatant disregard for environmental regulations and mining ethics.
The inspection team, led by the Edo State Commissioner for Mining, Andrew Ijegbai, discovered shocking evidence of environmental degradation and life-threatening activities in the areas.
Ijegbai, who expressed shock at the findings, condemned the illegal mining operations and reaffirmed the state’s commitment to eradicating unlawful activities in the mining sector.
The commissioner stated, “The illegal mining site at Erhua was found to be operating close to the federal road and openly excavating under high-tension power lines, posing significant risks to the community.
“The other illegal mining site at Iruekpen was operating without a licence, without consent from the proper authorities, and with no environmental impact assessment.
“These operations not only degrade the environment but also compromise the safety and well-being of the people living in the affected areas while also posing a threat to the state’s power infrastructure. The governor has directed an investigation and a ban on illegal mining operations in the state. I can assure you that the state is committed to eradicating illegal activities in the mining sector.”
The statement also highlighted the devastating impact of illegal mining on the environment and communities, adding, “We are committed to working with the Federal Ministry of Solid Minerals to root out these illegal activities and promote sustainable mining practices that benefit our people and our environment.”
The commissioner further stated that the Edo State Government, under Governor Okpebholo, prioritises environmental protection and sustainable development.
He noted that the state government’s efforts to combat illegal mining are part of a broader strategy to promote economic growth, protect the environment, and improve the living standards of residents.
Additionally, he stressed that these efforts aim to promote standardised mining practices, curb environmental degradation, and ensure the accurate transfer of socio-economic benefits to the state.
The commissioner also underscored that the collaboration between the Edo State Ministry of Mining and the Federal Ministry of Solid Minerals Development is a significant step towards addressing the challenges posed by illegal mining activities.
By working together, the two ministries aim to strengthen regulations, improve enforcement, and promote sustainable mining practices that benefit all stakeholders.
Other officials on the inspection team included the Zonal Mines Officer (South-South) of the Federal Ministry of Solid Minerals Development, Engr. Ganiyu Ajibade; the Chairman of the Edo State Task Force on the Protection of Government Property, Eugene Okoloise; and the Director of Mining, Edo State Ministry of Mining, Omoruyi Ihianle.
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