A member of the Oyo State House of Assembly, Anthony Ogunsola, has urged the state government to intensify efforts against illegal mining, warning that the surge in unregulated activities is worsening insecurity in rural communities.
Speaking during Tuesday’s plenary, Ogunsola, who represents Iwajowa Constituency and chairs the House Committee on Solid Minerals, presented a report linking illegal mining to rising cases of banditry, kidnapping, robbery, and environmental damage in the state.
According to the lawmaker, several host communities have been infiltrated by unidentified individuals whose unchecked operations have destabilised local security structures.
“The influx of these strangers is fueling violence, social vices, and ecological harm,” he said.
While he acknowledged Governor Seyi Makinde’s efforts, including the issuance of Executive Order No. 001 of 2023 to regulate mining activities, Ogunsola expressed concern over the poor compliance rate among mineral title holders.
The report revealed that only 13 miners are officially registered with the state’s regulatory agency—an alarmingly low figure considering the scale of operations in Oyo’s mining zones.
“This non-compliance is constituting security threats and challenges within the State, especially in the mining communities,” the report stated.
Ogunsola therefore called for firmer executive action to enforce existing regulations and protect residents from the growing menace.
