By Grace Samuel
Coal miners in Kogi State, holding valid licenses, have voiced their approval for the recent confiscation of 21 coal trucks by the state government and security forces.
Notable figures in the industry, including Dr. Innocent Ezuma of Etazuma Mining and Industries Limited, Partha Ghosh of Koyla Energy Limited, and Dr. Ramos of Mosra Energy Limited, commend the collaborative efforts of the federal government, Minister of Solid Mineral Development Dele Alake, the Kogi State government, and security agencies in addressing what they perceive as economic sabotage contributing to the growth of terrorism.
Expressing their commitment to tackling the issue of illegal mining and mitigating its adverse effects on the economy and national security, authorities in Kogi State established a joint task force comprising various security and mining agencies on December 18, 2023.
Between December 18 and January 7, 2024, this task force successfully seized a total of 21 trucks engaged in illegal coal mining, amounting to 945 tonnes.
Last week, the Federal High Court, under the leadership of Hon. Justice Abdul Dogo, granted an interim order for the forfeiture of the seized coal to the federal government.
The court specified that public notices of the order must be displayed in federal and state high courts, as well as mining sites in Ankpa local area, where the coal was confiscated.
Over the weekend, representatives from 24 licensed mining companies visited Kogi to express gratitude to the state government and security agencies for their concerted efforts in combatting illegal mining.
These mining companies not only conveyed appreciation but also provided valuable suggestions to enhance the task force’s operations.
They expressed confidence in the ongoing fight against illegal mining activities and urged other states and security agencies to join forces against illegal mining and economic sabotage for the benefit of the national economy.