The Oyo State Government has expressed grave concern over the rising security threats in the Itasa community and pledged immediate action to prevent further violence and ensure the safety of residents.
This was announced by the Director-General Oyo State Solid Mineral Development Agency, Mr. Abiodun Oni, during a recent inspection visit to the mining site.
Mr Oni said the Oyo State Government will further engaged traditional rulers, community leaders and relevant stakeholders to facilitate constructive dialogue and address the underlying grievances fueling the crisis.
He said although a peace meeting had recently taken place with key stakeholders, including the miners Architype Industries Nig Limited, Itasa community leaders, and the Chairman of Iwajowa Local Government, adding that in the meeting, all parties agreed to stop mining operations until ongoing disputes were resolved.
However, Mr. Oni observed during his inspection that the company had not adhered to this resolution.
He said “Despite several sensitization efforts to actualize executive order 001, traditional rulers, as well as many community leaders, continue to abuse their powers to the detriment of both the immediate community and the state posing security threats. We will continue to uphold the law to the letter, Oni concluded.
Reaffirming the government’s commitment to resolving the issue, Mr. Oni assured community leaders that appropriate actions would be taken to address the situation fairly and transparently.
He also reiterated the government’s dedication to environmental sustainability and social responsibility, emphasizing the importance of ensuring the safety and stability of local communities.
The OYSMIDA Director-General underscored the need for effective collaboration between community leaders and mining operators for the region’s sustainable development.
Mr. Oni expressed his appreciation for the support from community leaders and assured them that the agency remains open to consultations on matters related to mineral development and mining.
In response, the Chairman of Iwajowa Local Government, Mr. Muritala Oyewunmi, and other community leaders pledged their full support for the agency. They committed to working together to ensure the safe and responsible conduct of mining activities in the area.
