By Victor Akinkuolie, Igbekebo

The Ondo State Government has vowed to take decisive action against illegal mining and dredging activities 0n waterways across the state.

The Senior Special Adviser to Governor Aiyedatiwa on Mining, Mrs Omowunmi Folawe Sipasi-Aluko, made this declaration during the arrest of five suspected illegal miners in Ilu-Agbo, Ese-Odo Local Government area of yhe  State.

She said the move is part of the state’s efforts to regulate the activities of unlicensed and illegal sand miners.

The five suspects, who gave their names as David Ayara, David Monday, Bonima Boluwatife, Stanley Odoh, and Wisdom Nomiye, were arrested at Ilu-Agbo along River Oluwa in Ese-Odo Local Government area.

The operation, led by Mrs Sipasi-Aluko in collaboration with the Federal Mines Task Force, was supported by the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC) and other officials from the State Ministry of Mineral and Energy, Ministry of Environment, and the Ministry of Agriculture and Afforestation.

Also involved in the operation were officers of the Department of State Services (DSS) and operatives of the Ondo State Security Network, popularly known as Amotekun, in Ese-Odo, led by Mr Joseph Ebisanmi, among others.

Speaking during the operation, Mrs Sipasi-Aluko lamented that several warnings previously issued by the government had fallen on deaf ears.

She declared that the government has zero tolerance for illegal mining and warned that anyone caught would be prosecuted in accordance with the law.

She emphasised that companies involved in mining activities on waterways must legalise their operations by obtaining an Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA) certificate or an Environmental Management Plan (EMP) from the state government.

According to her, the effects of illegal mining, such as flooding, are dangerous, and the government cannot remain passive while citizens suffer, especially as the rainy season approaches.

“It’s high time we put an end to illegal mining in Ondo State, particularly sand mining at Ilu-Agbo along River Oluwa in Ese-Odo. The effects on the community are extremely dangerous. Ondo State has zero tolerance for illegal mining.

“All companies operating illegally must obtain their EIA certificate or Environmental Management Plan.

“We aim to eradicate flooding from this community as Mr Governor is committed to ensuring the safety of the people,” she said.

Also speaking during the operation, a community leader in Igbobini, Ese-Odo Local Government, High Chief Taiwo Abisagbo, commended the state government for the operation.a