By Monsur Olowoopejo

The Lagos state government has expressed concern over the increasing rate of illegal mining operation in the state warning that it will deal with anyone caught in the act.

Gov. Ambode

The Director, Human Resources and Administration, Mr. Fashola Adeyemi Taofik, of the Ministry of Energy and Mineral Resources, said that government was committed to ensuring an internationally accepted standard in the sand mining industry in the state.

Speaking during an on the spot assessment of some sand mining sites at the Ajah/Lekki axis of Lagos state, Fashola said the ministry was poised to ensure that miners in the state operate according to laid down regulations that will ensure sustainable development in the state. According to him, “in furtherance of the Ministry’s mandate to ensuring   sustainable mining operation, constant monitoring and  clinical review of mining methods and its impacts, taking stock of degraded area as well as putting in place a restoration plan is being done by the Ministry.

“The objectives of the mining site monitoring and evaluation are also to locate and delineate the extent of land degradation at mining sites, initiate and develop land use program for the identified area such as fish farming, agricultural cultivation, coconut plantation, landscaping. “It is also meant to identify the derivable impact of the exercise on affected communities as well as develop mining methods and proper documentation that will ensure sustainable development.”

He warned that henceforth, government would not take it lightly with those involved in illegal sand mining as they constitute majority of those who degrade the environment.

“Any person or group of persons caught perpetrating the illegal act will henceforth be dealt with decisively,” Fashola warned.
Sand mining sites visited were located at Oke Ogun, Araromi, Parcel B of the Lekki Free Trade Zones all in Lekki/Ajah axis.