Emmanuel OchayiIn a move against the scourge of illegal mining, Kogi State has taken decisive action, impounding 21 trucks loaded with coal. A crucial legal development accompanies this enforcement, as the court grants a forfeiture order.
Kogi State responded to the Federal Government’s ban, launching a Joint Taskforce on December 18, 2023. The taskforce, comprising various security agencies and mining authorities, acted decisively in the fight against economic saboteurs.
Between December 18, 2023, and January 7, 2024, the taskforce impounded a total of twenty-one trucks loaded with coal, amounting to 945 tons, a product of illegal mining. Seeking legal recourse, an application for the forfeiture of the coal to the Federal Government was filed on January 8, 2024.
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On January 18, 2024, the Federal High Court, presided over by Hon. Justice Abdul DOGO, granted an interim forfeiture order for the 945 tons of coal to the Federal Government. The court mandated the public posting of the order within seven days in various locations, including federal and state high courts and mining sites in Ankpa LGA. The return date for the final order is set for February 1, 2024.
In a show of support, twenty-four licensed mining companies visited Kogi State on January 19, 2024, commending the state government and security agencies for their action.
These companies issued a press statement expressing their gratitude to key figures, including President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, Minister Dele Alake, and Governor Yahaya Adoza Bello, emphasizing the need for sustained efforts to eradicate illegal mining across Nigeria.
Dr. Innocent O. Ezuma, Partha Ghosh, and Dr. Ramos, representing Etazuma Mining & Industries Limited, Koyla Energy Limited, and Mosra Energy Limited respectively, urged other state governments and security agencies to join the fight against illegal mining, emphasizing its detrimental impact on the nation’s economy and security.
The statement concluded with a resounding call for the continued prosperity of the Federal Republic of Nigeria.
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