Ibadan Monarch declares support for EFCC against illegal mining

The Olubadan of Ibadanland, Oba (Dr) Olalekan Ishola Balogun, has vowed his support to the Ibadan Zonal Command of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission, EFCC, in the fight against illegal mining operations and their perpetrators in the capital city.

The Monarch revealed this while speaking to the Acting Zonal Commander of the Ibadan Command of the EFCC, ACE I Halima Mustafa Rufa’u, who came on a familiarization visit on Tuesday, August 1, 2023.

Olubadan extolled the EFCC commander for her decision to familiarize herself with the traditional rulers at a time when illegal mining is on the rise.

Oba Balogun said, “I applaud you, the Zonal Commander, for coming to my palace at this time that the fight against illegal mining in Ibadan is on the rise and I am happy that the EFCC is a major stakeholder in this fight.

“It is evident and we are aware that the Commission has been tackling the menace of illegal mining activities head on and I can assure you of my full support including the supports of all the traditional chiefs in Ibadan to making sure that the illegal activities come to an end.”

Also, he highlighted the immense contribution of the Commission in battling cases of land and property fraud, emphasising the need to extend the struggle against cybercrimes and other related misdemeanours among youths.

Madam Rufa’u noted that the Ibadan Zonal Command “would continue to tackle the activities of illegal mineral operators that have undermined the development of the state and, indeed, the country through non- payment of royalties, taxes and other dues.”