The Akoko Edo community in Edo State is beset with
tension as it is currently the host of illegal miners in their
hundreds, that have for years been operating without the knowledge
of the community.
The illegal miners, who are mostly from northern Nigeria, had
hitherto operated freely in the state until a recent operation led
to their arrest and subsequent release. A visit to the communities
showed some people still residing there are opposing the
operation.
Illegal mining of metal ores and gold is a serious problem in
Nigeria. This illegal mining, which goes on in Akoko Edo
communities, has been the subject of many controversies, and some
of these disputes have led to violence.
Illegal miners are at it again in Akoko Edo, Edo State, with the
resurgence of illegal mining activities in the area is heightening
security tension in the communities, Nigerian Tribune and Daily
Trust reports.
The reporter said a resident of the area, who spoke on condition
of anonymity, said the tension had been on the rise for some time
and that, with the sudden increase in the activities of the illegal
miners, the tension had skyrocketed, with residents no longer able
to sleep peacefully.
The resurgence of illegal miners in the Akoko Edo community has
raised tensions between the community and the Nigerian security
authorities.
Illegal mining has been on the rise due to its lucrative nature.
The Akoko Edo communities have been complaining about the increased
presence of illegal miners, who they claim have now overwhelmed the
area.
The Akoko Edo community is also a traditional mining community,
and illegal mining is seen as a threat to their livelihood.
According to reports by the Edo State Commissioner of Police,
the illegal mining of gold in Akoko Edo communities has led to a
heightened security tension in the communities.
The Edo State police disclosed that the illegal miners have come
to the communities to mine illegally. He said the resumption of
illegal mining activities in the communities poses a serious
security threat to the lives and property of residents.
