A traditional ruler and his associates were arraigned in Abuja on Monday, facing charges of illegal gold mining. The Federal High Court ordered their detention in Kuje prison pending the fulfillment of bail conditions.
Oba Taofeeq Osunmakinde, the Obawore of Ifetuntun in Osun State, was accused of conducting illegal gold mining operations in Ondo State alongside four others and a company.
They were charged with conspiracy and unauthorised mining at the Ogunlepo mining site in Lege community.
The prosecution, led by the Office of the Attorney-General of the Federation, alleged in a case marked FHC/ABJ/CR/426/2024, has two charges.
It states that the defendants violated the Miscellaneous Offences Act by engaging in these illegal activities.
Illegal mining remains a significant problem in Nigeria, particularly in mineral-rich regions. Despite its potential to boost the economy, unregulated mining has led to environmental damage and conflicts in host communities.
While illegal mining is widespread, prosecution and conviction rates are low.
