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Senator Adams Oshiomhole has urged the Nigerian government to deploy superior force to combat illegal mining, citing powerful individuals behind the menace. He emphasized the need for strict enforcement, likening it to efforts against illegal bunkering, while clarifying his previous remarks on retired generals' involvement in mining activities.

Senator Adams Oshiomhole has called on the Nigerian government to take decisive action against illegal mining, emphasizing that only a superior force can neutralize the powerful individuals involved in the illicit activity. Speaking in an interview with Arise Television, Oshiomhole compared illegal mining to crude oil bunkering, urging the government to adopt similar enforcement strategies.

As the Chairman of the Senate Committee on Interior, Oshiomhole expressed concerns over the growing influence of local and foreign actors in the illegal mining sector. He argued that without insider support, foreign operators could not easily locate mineral-rich sites and begin extraction. According to him, the government must take a firm stance to protect the country’s resources.

Oshiomhole also addressed his recent controversial remark about retired generals allegedly being behind illegal mining. He clarified that his statement had been misrepresented, explaining that he did not mean all retired military officers were involved, but rather some individuals within that group.

The former Edo State governor stressed that Nigeria’s solid mineral sector requires stringent regulatory oversight and immediate government intervention. He warned that failing to act decisively could lead to further economic losses and environmental damage.

Illegal mining remains a pressing issue in Nigeria, with reports of unregulated activities leading to resource depletion and security threats. Oshiomhole’s comments highlight the need for urgent government action to curb the growing menace and protect the nation’s natural wealth from further exploitation.