Five sentenced for illegal mining in Niger state

Minna, Niger State – Justice Abdullahi M. Dan-Ige of the Federal High Court in Minna has convicted five individuals for illegal mining.

The defendants, identified as Yusuf Amadu, Babila Sani, Ibrahim Umar, Ephraim Jonas Okoro, and Saidu Mohammed, faced separate charges filed by the EFCC’s Kaduna Zonal Directorate.

Each individual faced accusations of violating the Nigerian Minerals and Mining Act, 2007, by possessing precious stones illegally.

They specifically faced charges for holding valuable resources without the necessary licenses, violating current laws.

The EFCC’s press release on June 20, 2025, detailed that these charges arose from operations in Minna and Kacha communities.

For instance, Yusuf Amadu was arrested in Kacha on November 14, 2024. Similarly, Ibrahim Umar was apprehended in Minna during the same month.

These arrests underscore the EFCC’s ongoing efforts to enforce compliance with licensing regulations in resource management.

Both men admitted their crimes in court, along with their co-defendants.

The prosecution, led by K.S. Ogunlade, pushed for conviction, while defense lawyers pleaded for mercy, citing their remorse.

After reviewing the case, Justice Dan-Ige sentenced each convict to one year in prison. However, he offered an alternative: a N100,000 fine per person.

The EFCC confirmed the group’s arrest based on intelligence reports that exposed their illegal activities.

Their operations spanned Minna Local Government and Kateregi Community in Kacha.

This ruling highlights Nigeria’s crackdown on unlawful mining, which harms the economy and environment.

The EFCC reaffirmed its dedication to prosecuting offenders and safeguarding natural resources. By enforcing strict penalties, authorities aim to deter future violations.

The case also demonstrates the judiciary’s role in upholding mining laws and ensuring accountability.

Moving forward, the commission urges citizens to report suspicious mining activities.

Additionally, it warns that unlicensed operators will face similar consequences.

Meanwhile, the convicts must either pay their fines or serve jail time.

Ultimately, the EFCC remains vigilant in tracking down offenders.

Furthermore, collaboration between communities and law enforcement is crucial.

With sustained efforts, Nigeria can protect its resources and promote lawful mining practices.

The prosecution of these five individuals marks a step toward achieving that goal.

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