The Minister of Solid Minerals Development, Dele Alake, officially inaugurated an eight-member investigative panel on Wednesday, aimed at delving into the circumstances that led to the sealing of Segilola Resources Operating Limited (SROL).
This initiative comes as part of a larger effort to mitigate the ongoing dispute between the Osun State Government and the gold mining company.
The conflict escalated when the Osun State Government decided to halt SROL’s operations, citing allegations of tax evasion and various infractions.
In a statement released to the press, Alake highlighted the importance of federal jurisdiction in mining operations, emphasizing that sub-national entities do not possess the authority to unilaterally disrupt mining activities across the nation.
He stated, “It is our firm belief that sub-national authorities do not possess the power to arbitrarily shut down mining operations.”
Furthermore, he underscored the necessity for mining companies to adhere to all relevant laws and regulations that govern their activities, which include tax obligations, environmental compliance, and corporate social responsibility.
The eight-member panel consists of a diverse group of professionals with expertise in various sectors related to mining and governance:
- Imam Ganiyu: Serving as the Director of the Mines Inspectorate within the Ministry, he takes on the role of Chairman for the panel.
- Dele Oye: A representative of the Nigerian Association of Chambers of Commerce, Industry, Mines, and Agriculture (NACCIMA), who will act as Vice-Chairman.
- Pwol Dareng: As the Assistant Director of the Organised Private Sector (OPS) of the Ministry, he is appointed as the Secretary of the panel.
- Vivian Okono: Holding the position of Director of Mines Environmental Compliance (MEC).
- N.C. Odili: Serving as the Director of Legal.
- Tayo Koleosho: A representative from the Federal Inland Revenue Service (FIRS).
- Zubeir S. Abubakar: Representing the Nigerian Investment Promotion Commission (NIPC).
The panel’s terms of reference are outlined as follows:
- Identify the root causes of the dispute: The panel will investigate the underlying factors contributing to the conflict between the Osun State Government and SROL.
- Review contractual obligations and agreements: They will analyze the contracts and agreements that exist between both parties to understand the legal framework governing their relationship.
- Assess the impact of SROL’s operations on host communities: An evaluation of how SROL’s activities have affected the local communities surrounding their operations will be conducted.
Alake reiterated the federal government’s dedication to working collaboratively with sub-national entities, emphasizing that state governments have the ability to apply for mining licenses.
He pointed out that these governments can also utilize their representatives within the Mineral Resources and Environmental Management Committee (MIREMCO) to oversee mining operations effectively.
“MIREMCO exists in all states of the federation, and they are charged with ensuring compliance of mining companies with extant regulations and laws,” Alake explained, reinforcing the importance of regulatory oversight in the mining sector.
This initiative reflects a broader commitment to addressing disputes within the mining industry while ensuring that all parties adhere to established legal and regulatory frameworks.
