Edo State Ministry of Mining, in collaboration with the Federal Ministry of Solid Minerals Development, has taken decisive action against illegal mining operations in the state, shutting down two unlicensed sites.
Public Relations Officer of the Edo State Ministry of Mining, Grace Oakhiena, disclosed this development in a press statement on Friday.
According to the statement, the affected sites—located in Erhua Community near Ehor in Edo South and Iruekpen Community in Edo Central—were closed on Wednesday following an inspection.
Authorities discovered that these sites were operating without the necessary licences, violating environmental laws, and disregarding ethical mining practices.
The inspection team, led by Edo State Commissioner for Mining, Andrew Ijegbai, uncovered severe environmental degradation and hazardous activities, posing significant risks to both residents and infrastructure.
Expressing his dismay, Ijegbai strongly condemned the illegal operations and reiterated the state’s unwavering commitment to eliminating unlawful mining activities.
“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 commissioner stated.
He further revealed that the Iruekpen site lacked the necessary licence, had no official approvals, and failed to conduct an 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,” Ijegbai added.
The statement also underscored the severe impact of illegal mining on communities and ecosystems, affirming the state’s commitment to collaborating with the Federal Ministry of Solid Minerals to eliminate such unlawful practices.
“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,” it noted.
The commissioner further emphasized that Governor Okpebholo’s administration prioritizes environmental conservation and sustainable development.
He outlined the government’s broader strategy, which not only targets illegal mining but also aims to drive economic progress, safeguard the environment, and enhance the quality of life for Edo residents.
By standardizing mining operations, the state seeks to prevent environmental destruction while ensuring that mining-related economic benefits are properly channeled into the state’s development.
Additionally, Ijegbai highlighted the importance of collaboration between the Edo State Ministry of Mining and the Federal Ministry of Solid Minerals Development, stating that their joint efforts would help strengthen regulatory enforcement and promote sustainable mining practices for the benefit of all stakeholders.
The inspection team also included key officials such as the Zonal Mines Officer (South-South) of the Federal Ministry of Solid Minerals Development, Engr. Ganiyu Ajibade; Chairman of the Edo State Task Force on the Protection of Government Property, Eugene Okoloise; and Director of Mining, Edo State Ministry of Mining, Omoruyi Ihianle.
