WAPCo’s call for action against illegal sand mining along its pipeline Right-of-Way at Igbesa, in Ogun State, Nigeria received a boost with the State Security agencies and local leadership assuring of tighter enforcement of sand mining laws.

Illegal sandmining along its pipeline Right of Way remains a matter of grave concern to WAPCo due to the imminent danger it poses to life and property of members of the company’s host communities.

WAPCo each year engages local community leaders, relevant authorities and leaders of the sandmining association to deliberate on measures to stop this canker. However, these engagements have yielded little results, and the company is now rallying law enforcement support to halt the menace to save lives and property.

WAPCo’s call appears to be drawing some positive responses.

Speaking at this year’s engagement on the theme, “From Dialogue to Action – Safeguarding the WAGP Against Sand Mining Threats”, representatives from the various state agencies shared actions being taken and that would be taken to stop the negative and dangerous practice.

“Where there is no law you can’t be found guilty. When you run afoul of the law, you would be punished.”

– ACP Folashade Tanaruno, Police Area Commander, Agbara Division

“We urge illegal sand miners to avoid encroaching on the RoW to prevent disaster. The consequences of a fire in these circumstances could be catastrophic. Security agencies are prepared to act on reports of mining activities close to the RoW and will take necessary measures,” the Agbara Division Commander added.

“How many miners currently possess both their certificate of consistency and the community development assessment, as mandated by law?”

– Mrs Esther Odesanya, Area Commander, NSCDC

Obtaining these certificates is essential before beginning mining activities. Miners must ensure full compliance with legal requirements to avoid facing legal consequences, as the law will eventually catch up with those who do not adhere to the rules.

Even individuals involved in legal mining operations are found to be violating certain legal provisions. To address these breaches, we are collaborating with WAPCo and working closely with traditional institutions to gather intelligence on those acting outside the law. In response, we are forming a dedicated task force to conduct patrols and are prepared to carry out prosecutions following thorough investigations.

However, beyond enforcement actions, it is crucial that we also focus on identifying and addressing the underlying causes of these issues to create lasting solutions,” she said.

Invited guests at the programme who expressed support in ending illegal sand mining along the WAPCo Right of Way included Oba Nasir Olayemi, the Olodan of Odan, representing Oba Abdul-Aziz Akinde, the Oloja-Ekun of Igbesa Kingdom; a representative of the Olota of Ota, Oba (Prof.) Adeyemi Obalanlege; and the officer in charge, Director of State Security Free Trade Zone Agbara.

Oba (Prof.) Adeyemi Obalanlege and the other dignitaries moved to the location to assess the situation and its impact on the right of way.