The Secret Network: Retired Generals and Illegal Mining in the Country
Senator Adams Oshiomhole, representing Edo North Senatorial District and Chairman of the Senate Committee on Interior, has alleged that certain retired Nigerian military generals are responsible for illegal mining activities across the country.
He made this assertion during a meeting with the Senate Committee on Appropriations, following the submission of the 2025 budget report by the Senate Committee on Solid Minerals Development.
Oshiomhole emphasized that the identities of these retired generals are well-known and recalled writing a letter to former President Muhammadu Buhari about the issue during his tenure.
He stated, “The ongoing illegal mining across the country is being carried out by retired generals, and we know them. Yes, we know them. Nobody in Africa doesn’t know them.”
He also recounted challenges faced during primary elections in Zamfara State due to illegal mining activities and suggested deploying joint task forces, including the Army, Police, and Air Force, to combat the menace.
The Senate Committee supported Oshiomhole’s call, urging security agencies to take decisive action against those involved in illegal mining.