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| EFCC enforces law, securing Nigeria’s mineral wealth |
The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) Ilorin Zonal Command is pressing for the final forfeiture of a truck-load of solid minerals. The haul was seized from suspected illegal miners operating in Kwara and Oyo States. The matter lies before Justice Olukayode Ariwoola of the Federal High Court in Ilorin. Prosecuting counsel, Barrister Sesan Ola, led the application in court. The EFCC aims to cement its win against illegal mining and reinforce rule of law in mineral regulation.
On February 4, 2024, EFCC operatives acting on credible intelligence intercepted a truck near Ogbomosho, Oyo State. Inside were 30 tons of mixed solid minerals without any mining licence. The cargo reportedly included marble, white powder (thought to be feldspar), lithium and lepidolite. Those minerals hold high value in international markets for ceramics and battery production. The EFCC charged the haul under Section 1(8)(b) of the Miscellaneous Offences Act, 1983.
The forfeiture application was filed on June 30, 2025. It seeks to transfer ownership of the minerals to the federal government. Justice Ariwoola has set a review date for August 15, 2025, to hear arguments from both sides. EFCC counsel Sesan Ola urged the court to grant final forfeiture in line with EFCC’s operational statutes. Defence lawyers have yet to file any counter-affidavit.
The Ilorin Zonal Directorate has made illegal mining a priority. In February alone, the command seized 12 trucks of unlicensed minerals and arrested 41 suspects. That operation targeted routes from Share, Banni and Patigi in Kwara, and Igbeti in Oyo. EFCC zonal commander Michael Nzekwe said the drive will remain relentless. He warned that Nigeria’s economy loses billions through unregulated exports.
Illegal mining brings short-term pay for locals. But it harms far more in the long run. Unregulated pits can collapse and flood homes. Water tables fall as dig sites grow. Soil erosion leaves farmland useless. Residents in affected areas report crop failure and water loss. Environmental experts call for community education on safe mining.
Nigeria ranks among top sources of marble, gold and lithium in Africa. Yet turnover stays low due to unlicensed export. Global demand for battery metals like lithium is surging. Proper licensing can boost government revenue by billions of naira annually. Reliable data from the Ministry of Mines shows licensed mining contributes only 8 percent of total output.
Mining lawyer Aisha Bello notes, “Final forfeiture must send clear signal. The law must protect our mineral wealth.” Environmental economist Dr. Emeka Okoye adds, “Regulated mining lifts locals out of poverty. It funds schools and clinics.” Both stress policy reform to fast-track licences and curb middlemen exploitation.
The Federal Government launched the Solid Minerals Development Fund in 2023. It aims to invest in small-scale miners for proper gear and training. Yet delays in fund disbursement feed illegal trade. Stakeholders urge streamlined processes and transparent tender awards. They call for joint EFCC-mines ministry task force to fast-track reform.
Some defend small-scale miners as victims of red tape. Many lack funds to secure licences. They see EFCC raids as heavy-handed. Others see foul play by unscrupulous licence issuers. Justice Ariwoola’s ruling must weigh both the need for regulation and support for grassroots miners.
The final forfeiture ruling will shape Nigeria’s fight against illegal mining. A clear verdict could deter smugglers and boost licensed output. It may also reignite debate on mining policy reform. As communities await justice, the court’s decision on August 15, 2025 will mark a key milestone for Nigeria’s mineral sector.