The Kogi State Government has directed the Ministry of Solid Minerals and Natural Resources to put an end to all illegal mining in the state.
The directives were issued in response to the deaths of two people at an illegal mining site in Ankpa Local Government Area’s Ika-Ogboyaga after the site collapsed.
The deceased were identified as Amodu and Attah.
They died on Saturday, 28th August 2022, at about 04:20 pm when the mining site collapsed.
A statement signed by the Kogi State Commissioner For Solid Minerals and Natural Resources, Engr. Bashiru Gegu, stated that all legal operators should henceforth register with the Ministry of Solid Minerals and Natural resources to enhance peace and criminal-free sites.
The Government expressed worry over the activities of some unknown operators in mining sites and advised them to register with the Ministry of Solid Minerals and Natural resources to ascertain the genuine miners.
The Statement said failure to adhere to the directive, the State Government will close down the erring mining operators and sites.
The commandant of the Nigerian Security and Civil Defense Corp, Oyinloye JK, said an investigation had begun to ascertain the owner of the site.
He also confirmed that the deceased had been buried following Islamic laws.
He said that he has directed the Divisional Official of NSCDC to liase with the traditional ruler not to allow further illegal activities in that community for now until investigation is completed.