Within the previous ten months, the Economic and Financial Crime Commission’s Ilorin Zonal Command has detained no less than 80 alleged illegal miners.
Mr Abdulquawiy Olododo, the Kwara Commissioner for Solid Minerals Development, paid a courtesy visit to Michael Nzekwe, Zonal Commander in command of the zone, on Tuesday in Ilorin.
Nzekwe described how information showed the existence of illegal mining sites across the state, as well as the EFCC’s efforts to combat the scourge.
According to him, in the last 10 months, no fewer than 80 suspected illegal miners with truckloads of various minerals had been apprehended.
”It is alarming the rate at which the resources of the state are being plundered by artisan/illegal miners.’ If the resources are channeled through the right sources and put into good use, they are enough to sustain the economy of the state and make it self-reliant.
He highlighted that Kwara was rich in mineral deposits, and that the resources available in the state’s 16 Local Government Areas might transform it into a “small London” if properly utilized.
He went on to say that the fight against corruption, particularly illegal mining, needed everyone’s help to succeed.
He called the commissioner’s visit opportune and praised Gov. Abdulrahman Abdulrasaq for filling his cabinet with youthful and vibrant people.
He went on to say that the appointment of the commissioner as the ministry’s leader would undoubtedly turn the sector around for the better.
Earlier, Olododo reaffirmed the state government’s commitment to working with the EFCC to combat unlawful natural mineral mining in the state.
He stated that the state government wholeheartedly supported what the EFCC was doing, particularly in its efforts to combat illegal mining and other economic crimes in the state.
”The government is not unaware of the challenges you are facing in carrying out this arduous task.
”This administration is determined to compliment your efforts as it is focused on how to properly organise and harness the potentials in the mining sector to attract local and foreign investors,” he said.
The commissioner also stated that he was aware of all of the EFCC’s previous obligations even before assuming duty as the commissioner in charge of solid minerals development.
While asking the zonal commander not to cease in its efforts to clean up the state of corruption, he urged for greater coordination and synergy among government institutions, particularly in the commission’s continuing anti-corruption battle. (NAN)