The federal government has taken action against illegal mining activities at Jaguna, off Iye and Odogbe communities in Kogi State after more than 20 years of illicit operations. The Minister of Solid Minerals, Dele Alake, reported that the mining marshals, a special security unit, demolished the site, giving laborers a five-day ultimatum to vacate.

Despite warnings from traditional leaders, the illegal miners fortified the area with armed protection, hindering licensed mineral titleholders’ legitimate access for over 16 years. The recent operation by the mining marshals neutralized resistance, clearing the site for legal operations.

Alake emphasized the importance of addressing illegal mining activities that have gone unchecked for more than two decades. This decisive action aims to restore lawful mining operations and ensure compliance with regulations to protect natural resources.