Residents of Itasa community in Iwajowa Local Government Area of Oyo State have raised alarm over alleged illegal and destructive mining activities by a particular firm (name withheld) and other miners operating in the area.
The community expressed concerns about the potential security risks posed by the illegal mining, warning that it could lead to crises such as terrorism and banditry if left unchecked.
Speaking on behalf of the community, Prof. Bayo Aborisade accused the company of exploiting their land for nearly two decades without fulfilling its legal and social responsibilities.
He noted that the firm has violated key provisions of the Nigerian Minerals and Mining Act, particularly the mandate to sign a Community Development Agreement (CDA) with host communities before beginning operations.
He said, “We prepared the CDA and requested the Managing Director of Architype Industries Nigeria Limited, Engr. Ajibade, to document his objections so that we can have a negotiated agreement. He refused. Instead, the Mines Environmental Compliance (MEC) Officer continues to call us to negotiate at his whim. And we ask: negotiate what?”
said some government officials has also compromised their positions, enabling illegal mining activities that fuel banditry, kidnapping, and environmental destruction in the community.
Regrettably, communities are left exposed to lawless investors who traverse the land with police escorts, throw communities into agony, and leave posterity a bleak future of penury and diseases.”
According to him, this disregard for the community’s rights has reportedly caused significant harm to local biodiversity, health, and livelihoods.
The community claimed that Architype Industries does not possess a valid consent instrument from the Itasa community, a fundamental requirement for any mining operation.
They have not conducted an approved Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA) prior to beginning mining activities, as mandated by law.”
“This blatant disregard for due process has left our environment vulnerable to severe degradation,” Aborisade stated.Related News
