Illegal mining has been banned in Kogi State through the Ministry of Solid Minerals and Natural resources.
Kogi State Government issued the ban following the death of two persons, who died after an illegal mining site collapsed at Ika- Ogboyaga in Ankpa Local Government Area.
Amodu and Attah, the two persons who died at the mining site, passed away on Saturday, 27th August 2022, at about 04:20 pm.
Legal operators have been directed by Kogi State Commissioner For Solid Minerals and Natural Resources, Engr. Bashiru Gegu, to register with the Ministry of Solid Minerals and Natural resources to enhance peace and criminal-free sites.
The state government which expressed worry over the activities of some unknown operators in mining sites, said failure to adhere to the directive will lead to the closure of erring mining sites.
Commandant of the Nigerian Security and Civil Defense Corp, Oyinloye JK who disclosed that the deceased had been buried following Islamic laws, said an investigation had begun to ascertain the owner of the site.
The Divisional Official of NSCDC have also been asked to liaise with the traditional ruler not to allow further illegal activities in that community for now until an investigation is completed.