1 week ago
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The House of Representatives has resolved to investigate the non-compliance by mining operators to provisions of the Minerals and Mines Act, 2007, as well as the Explosives Act.
The House also urged the Ministry of Solid Minerals to conduct public awareness campaigns to educate citizens on their rights under the Minerals and Mines Act and the mechanisms available for reporting non-compliance and environmental violations.
This was sequel to the unanimous adoption of a motion on the subject matter Tuesday, sponsored by Hon. Gaza Jonathan Gbefwi.
The lawmaker in the motion presented on his behalf by Hon. Okpolupm Etteh, noted that the Nigerian Minerals and Mining Act, 2007 expressly outlines several consequences for mining operators who fail to comply with its provisions, some of which include revocation of mineral title, penalties and fines, suspension of operations, legal actions and community development agreements to mention a few.
“Whereas the act was enacted to ensure sustainable mining practices, protect the environment, and uphold the rights of local communities, it has become increasingly evident that many mining operators have failed to adhere to its provisions which reveals an alarming level of complacency exhibited by regulatory bodies in addressing these violations,” he stated.
The lawmaker recalled that in 2024 most Nigerians lost their lives in several incidents which included massive explosion in Bodija area of Ibadan, Oyo state, resulting in property damage and five deaths, a mining collapse in Niger state, and a building collapse in Plateau state due to improper reclaimed mine tunnels.
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