Kogi state government has directed its Ministry of Solid Minerals and Natural Resources to start the profiling of legal mining companies in the state.
This was part of the resolutions reached at the state executive council meeting held in Lokoja on Wednesday.
The state executive council meeting presided over by Governor Usman Ododo also suspended all mining activities in the State due to influx of bandits and negative elements in the mining sector.
Speaking with newsmen after the meeting, Commissioner for Solid Minerals and Natural Resources, Engr Bashiru Gegu, said the decision was aimed at curbing crimes associated with the sector.
“A total clean up of the sector will go a long way in minimizing or eradicating criminalities in totality.
”This is to enable the state have genuine mining data.
“The state will work in accordance with the rules of the game and will collaborate with the federal mines officers and the security agencies.
“The State will not condone any form of infiltration or illegal activities.
“We implore all the mining companies to bear with the State in this circumstances because we must curb insecurity,” he said.
