The Minister of Solid Minerals, Dele Alake, has revealed that he is receiving life-threatening messages following his comments about powerful Nigerians funding banditry associated with illegal mining in the country.
Alake made this disclosure during an on-the-spot assessment of the aftermath of an explosion in Ibadan, which claimed five lives and resulted in billions of naira worth of property damage.
The minister said the threats came in response to his remarks at the National Assembly regarding the involvement of influential individuals in illegal mining activities.
Despite the threats, Alake asserted that he remains undaunted and emphasized the importance of shedding light on the issue.
His words, “I said it during my Ministry’s budget defence at the National Assembly that powerful Nigerians are behind the banditry associated with illegal mining in the country. I said it openly.
“However, since I made the disclosure, I have been receiving threats, but we are undaunted because it has to be said.”
Alake highlighted the complicity across different segments of society, emphasizing that it is not exclusive to high-profile figures.
He mentioned that the government is employing both kinetic and non-kinetic strategies to address the issue and is collaborating with critical stakeholders at the state, local government, and host community levels to halt the activities of illegal miners.
The minister stressed the importance of involving host communities in security strategies, stating, “We cannot do without them.”
He also pointed out the well-funded and armed nature of bandits sponsored by highly placed Nigerians, emphasizing the need for military involvement.
Regarding the Ibadan explosion, Alake condemned the stockpiling of explosives in residential areas and cautioned against making premature statements before all forensic analysis reports and investigations are complete.
He assured that justice would be served regardless of the status of those found guilty.
