The Ondo State Government has apprehended five individuals suspected of engaging in illegal sand mining activities in Ilu-Agbo, located in Ese-Odo Local Government Area.
The suspects—David Ayara, David Monday, Bonima Boluwatife, Stanley Odoh, and Wisdom Nomiye—were arrested during a joint operation led by the Senior Special Assistant to Governor Lucky Aiyedatiwa on Mining, Mrs. Folawe Sipasi-Aluko.
According to The PUNCH, Sipasi-Aluko disclosed that the operation was carried out in collaboration with the Federal Mines Task Force, Nigerian Security and Civil Defence Corps, Department of State Services and the Ondo State Security Network Agency (Amotekun), among others.
“The state government has issued several warnings to illegal miners in the area, but these were ignored,” she said.
“Governor Aiyedatiwa maintains a zero-tolerance stance on illegal mining, especially along water channels where the impact is devastating.”
Sipasi-Aluko emphasized the importance of proper regulatory compliance by mining operators. “All companies involved in sand mining must obtain either an Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA) certificate or an Environmental Management Plan (EMP). The risks of flooding and environmental degradation are too severe to ignore,” she stressed.
Mr. Isaac Ojo, Director of Environmental Impact Assessment in the state, also highlighted the significance of the EIA process in preventing environmental damage. “The EIA provides guidelines on where to install machines, designate loading zones, and manage waste responsibly. Without it, the community faces long-term harm,” he warned.
Community leaders also voiced their support for the clampdown. Chief Taiwo Abisagbo from Igbobini community praised the government’s action, noting that illegal sand mining had disrupted farming, destroyed homes, and posed health risks.
“We commend the government for its firm response,” he said. “We are committed to working with the authorities to protect our land and ensure safe mining practices going forward.”
Authorities reaffirmed their commitment to intensifying efforts against illegal mining operations, especially as the rainy season approaches.
