…seeks urgent action
From David Onuoja, Abuja
Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan-led committee on Ajaokuta Steel Company, has uncovered illegal mining activities in Kogi State.
The Senate ad-hoc Committee investigating alleged corruption and inefficiency in Ajaokuta Steel Company and NIOMCO, while carrying out its statutory assignment, discovered how illegal mining activities have been going on in the Kogi Central Senatorial distinct.
Speaking after the discovery, Senator Natasha seek urgent action to bring such unlawful activities to an end.
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She equally expressed her concern over the illegal extraction of gold and other precious minerals within the company premises, despite the fact that mining operations in the company ceased in 2008.
The committee discovered that illegal miners from Northern Nigeria have been operating unhindered, gaining entrance into the company because of the lack of adequate fencing of the company.
According to her, the miners have often claimed to be working for various gold dealers.
Speaking during the visit, the Acting Sole Administrator of NIOMCO, Engr. Isinmidun Festus Loto, confirmed that illegal mining is a major challenge facing the company.
He, however, pleaded with the lawmakers to intervene and secure Federal Government’s support to provide adequate security at company in order to protect the company’s equipment.
The Senate committee, in its findings, emphasised the need for urgent action to prevent further illegal activities and potential breakdown of law and order in both companies.
