Multiple sources told SaharaReporters that the probe is aimed at unravelling an alleged nexus between illegal and large-scale mining operations and the deteriorating security situation in parts of the state.
The Kwara State House of Assembly has commenced moves to investigate the activities of mining companies operating across the state following a surge in banditry, kidnapping and terror-related incidents in several local government areas.
Multiple sources told SaharaReporters that the probe is aimed at unravelling an alleged nexus between illegal and large-scale mining operations and the deteriorating security situation in parts of the state.
The investigation, expected to formally commence this week, is being led by the Speaker of the House, Yakubu Danladi-Salihu, and would feature public hearings and engagements with security agencies, host communities, and both local and foreign mining operators.
Lawmakers believe that the sudden escalation of banditry and kidnapping in areas previously considered relatively peaceful is linked to the influx and operations of miners — ranging from artisanal operators to large-scale commercial firms.
Kwara hosts a growing number of mining sites spread across several local government areas, with operators including small local miners and major commercial players.
Foreign interests, particularly Chinese and Indian firms, are also actively involved in mineral extraction across the state.
SaharaReporters gathered that intense competition over mining sites, the unregulated movement of armed guards attached to some operators, and the presence of undocumented foreign workers have created what security sources described as blind spots now being exploited by criminal elements.
The Assembly’s action follows a series of banditry and terror-related incidents that have pushed Kwara into national — and even international — headlines in recent months, sparking public anxiety and mounting pressure on the government and security agencies to act decisively.
Sources familiar with the probe disclosed that the House will cast a specific searchlight on the mining operations of a prominent chieftain of the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC), widely known to be a close political ally of Governor AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq.
According to the sources, lawmakers are expected to examine whether the multi-billion-naira mining operations linked to the chieftain’s company may be directly or indirectly connected to the wave of insecurity, particularly rural banditry and kidnapping, in surrounding communities.
However, the Kwara State House of Assembly has not publicly indicted any individual or company, insisting that the exercise remains at the preliminary inquiry stage and that all findings will be guided by evidence and due process.