The Oyo State Government has inaugurated a Joint Task Force to enforce Executive Order 001/2023 on illegal mining. The task force are expected to curb unauthorized mineral exploitation and protecting the state’s environment and communities.
The Joint Task Force, comprising all constitutionally recognized security agencies — including Amotekun, Operation Burst, and the NSCDC — was officially launched at community events held in Babaaro, Igbeti, and Iseyin.
These events drew participation from government officials, traditional leaders, and local stakeholders, underlining a united front against environmental degradation and criminality linked to illegal mining.
Director-General of the Oyo State Mineral Development Agency (OYSMIDA), Mr. Abiodun Oni, declared the state’s zero-tolerance stance:
“The Joint Task Force has come to stay. Anyone found engaging in illegal mining will be prosecuted. The law will take its full course.”
Oni praised Governor Seyi Makinde’s leadership in prioritizing security and environmental protection, while urging residents to remain vigilant and report suspicious activities.
Meanwhile, General Manager of OYSMIDA, Mrs. Olufunke Omidiran, described the initiative as a strategic response to the growing threat of illegal mining, positioning the task force to ensure sustainability and compliance with environmental standards.
Also, special Adviser to the Governor on Migrant and Homeland Security, retired ACG Segun Adegoke, emphasized the broader security implications of illegal mining, linking it to banditry and kidnapping.
The government also announced the immediate enforcement of Executive Order 001/2023, which mandates mining operators and host communities to sign Consent Letters and Community Development Agreements (CDAs), in line with the Nigerian Mining Act.
