Ogun residents protest mining over environmental and safety concerns
Residents of Ado-Odo in Ogun State are voicing strong concerns about clay mining activities near their homes. Members of the Ado-Odo Progressive Union allege that mining is happening dangerously close to residential areas, farmlands, and roads. They say the excavation has created deep, water-filled pits and exposed the community to health and security risks. The residents are calling for urgent government intervention and stricter enforcement of environmental laws.
What happened
- Akeem Alagbe and other residents report that mining has created hazardous pits near homes, prompting previous protests and government involvement.
- Tajudeen Akinwande claims the Ogun State Ministry of Environment sealed a site and issued an abatement notice, but mining activities continued, with one section dug in 2024 and another in January.
- Olusegun Aina highlights the health risks from water-filled pits, which become mosquito breeding grounds and pose dangers to residents.
- Some operators are alleged to pose security threats, with reports of violence and drug use near mining sites.
- The community demands suspension of mining, a review of operator licenses, land remediation, compensation for affected residents, and stricter law enforcement.
