Lawmakers allege government officials, paramount rulers contributing to illegal mining in Nasarawa

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By Muhammed Ogwu, Lafia

Officials from the Nasarawa State Ministry of Environment and Natural Resources, alongside the traditional rulers, have been accused of contributing to illegal mining activities across the state.

The allegations were made by the Chairman of the House Committee on Environment, Mr. Adamu Omadefu, during a plenary session in Lafia in a motion of public interest sponsored by, Mr. Daniel Ogah Ogazi (APC, Kokona East).

Mr. Ogazi who expressed deep concern over the illegal mining, said that the criminal activities are being carried out with the connivance of ministry officials.

Mr. Omadefu (APC, Keana) who also collaborated, described the situation as worrisome, urging for a concerted effort among stakeholders to eradicate illegal mining across the 13 local government areas of the State.

Contributing on the matter the, Mr. Musa Ibrahim, a former Commissioner of Environment and Natural Resources and representing Doma South Constituency at the State House of Assembly, affirming that it would be difficult for illegal miners to operate in the state without the concept or knowledge of the officials in the ministry of environment.

He, however, alleged that government officials and community leaders are being bribed with U.S. dollars to facilitate these illegal activities.

On his part, Mr, Onarigu Onah Kana (SDP, Loko/Udege) also echoed these sentiments, adding that traditional rulers are also implicated in contributing to the menace of illegal mining across the state.