During an on-the-spot assessment of the explosion in Ibadan, Minister of Solid Minerals, Dele Alake, confirmed that he has been receiving life-threatening messages after his comment on the involvement of powerful Nigerians in funding banditry associated with illegal minings.
Alake stated that these threats were a result of his statement during the Ministry’s budget defense at the National Assembly, where he openly discussed the issue. Despite the threats, Alake remains undaunted and believes it is crucial to address this issue, as it is not something new and many people have been aware of it.
He emphasized that his statement was based on intelligence reports, giving it an official stamp.
The different strata of society, including the high, medium, and low classes, are involved in connivance, and this is not limited to just the upper class.
To address this issue, the Minister revealed that the government is implementing both kinetic and non-kinetic strategies and tactics. Additionally, the Federal government is collaborating with key stakeholders at the state, local government, and host community levels to put an end to the activities of illegal miners.
The involvement of host communities is crucial because their knowledge of the local terrain is essential for effective security strategies.
The Minister also highlighted that highly placed individuals are sponsoring bandits who have access to funding and a significant arsenal, even laying mines to counter ground forces in the forest.
Therefore, the presence and engagement of the military are necessary. Regarding the Ibadan explosion, the Minister condemned the storage of explosives in residential areas and emphasized the need for thorough forensic analysis and investigations before making any definitive statements.
However, he assured that justice would be served regardless of the social status of those responsible.
