By FEMI AKINOLA
The Federal Government of Nigeria through the Ministry of Solid Minerals Development, has kicked against Osun Government’s shutting down of Segilola Gold Company over alleged tax evasion.
Minister of Solid Mineral Development, Mr. Dele Alake, at weekend, warned the Osun State Government against shutting down the gold mining company, noting that such actions may discourage investments in Nigeria.
Following controversies surrounding the operation of Segilola Gold Company and the accusation of non-payment of taxation, the Osun State Government, last Monday, the government announced that it sealed the business premises of Segilola Resources Operating Limited.
This move occured after the Osun State government obtained n order from the Osogbo Chief Magistrate Court presided over by Segun Ayilara. The court heeded the request of the state government to restrain Segilola mining company for various tax violations.
Reacting to the development, Dele Alake, who described Osun State action against Segilola company said that his ministry is looking into the claims and counter-claims between the Osun State Government and Thor Explorations Limited, the owner of Segilola Resources Operating Limited, regarding taxation and operational issues.
In an attempt to address this dispute and restore industrial harmony, the minister said, ” I have se up a fact- finding team. This team will be led by Dr. Mary Ogbe, the Permanent Secretary of the ministry, and will include representatives from the Federal Inland Revenue (FIRS), the Ministry of Labour and Employment, and the National Association of Chambers of Commerce, Industry, Mines and Agriculture (NACCIMA). ‘