EFCC arraigns driver, escort for illegal mineral possession

In a significant crackdown on illegal mining, the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) Ilorin Zonal Command has arraigned two individuals for possessing solid minerals without lawful authority. Nura Lawal, the driver of a truck, and Tunde Jimoh, his escort, appeared before Justice Uche Agomoh at the Federal High Court in Ibadan, Oyo State, facing a one-count charge.

The EFCC, acting on an intelligence report, arrested Lawal and Jimoh on February 4, 2024, in Ogbomoso, Oyo State. They were allegedly transporting approximately 30 tons of assorted solid minerals mined illegally in Kwara State. The charge against them stated: “That you, Nura Lawal and Tunde Jimoh, sometime in February 2024 within the jurisdiction of the Federal High Court, without lawful authority were found in possession of minerals conveyed in a truck with plate number T3815LA contrary to, and punishable under Section 1 (8) (b) of the Miscellaneous Offences Act Cap M17, 1983.”

During the court session, Lawal pleaded guilty, while Jimoh entered a not guilty plea. EFCC counsel Mustapha Kaigama requested a review of facts for Lawal and a trial date for Jimoh. Justice Agomoh ordered the remand of both defendants at the Nigerian Correctional Centre in Agodi, Ibadan, and adjourned the case to June 5, 2024.

This case underscores the EFCC’s ongoing efforts to combat illegal mining operations and ensure compliance with Nigeria’s mineral resource laws. The swift action by the EFCC highlights the agency’s dedication to addressing unlawful extraction and transportation of minerals, protecting the nation’s natural resources from exploitation.