The Nigerian government has issued a stern warning to illegal miners, ordering them to vacate all mining sites in Zamfara immediately. This directive was announced by the Minister of Solid Minerals Development, Dr. Dele Alake, during a statement released on Tuesday by his spokesperson, Segun Tomori.
The government’s warning comes in response to recent reports of lead poisoning linked to mining activities in the Bugundu Local Government Area of Zamfara. Dr. Alake emphasized that all mining operations are currently suspended until new standard operating procedures are established to ensure safe exploration in the state.
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Dr. Alake highlighted that the lead poisoning outbreak indicates that local authorities have allowed illegal miners to operate in mining sites in Zamfara, which is in direct violation of existing bans on illegal mining. He urged citizens to respect government regulations and the authority of the law.
“Failure to address this situation leads to serious consequences, as we are now witnessing,” he added. The Minister stressed that collaboration is essential to oust illegal miners from all areas, in order to protect the lives of innocent people endangered by the reckless actions of a few.
As part of the solution, Alake mentioned that reports from experts and ministry officials will guide specific actions to prevent future disasters. “We must work together to remove illegal miners from all mining sites in Zamfara to ensure the safety and well-being of our communities,” he stated.
