OAU Management Speaks On Illegal Mining On Campus

The Management of Obafemi Awolowo University, Ile Ife, has reacted to the ongoing illegal mining on the campus of the institution.

In a statement on Saturday signed by its spokesperson, Abiodun Olarewaju, the management denied claims of issuing mining licences for mining activities on the campus of the institution.

The university also denied that it has entered into any form of lease or agreement in that respect with illegal miners.

According to the statement, “It has come to the knowledge of the University Administration that some individuals, groups, and or companies have claimed that they have licenses to carry on mining activities on the University land at Ile-Ife and that they have the consent of the University, in the form of leases and agreements, in that respect.

“A release by the Public Relations Officer of the University, Abiodun Olarewaju, stated that while the University has, since becoming aware of the illegal activities of these miners, written a formal complaint to the appropriate government authorities, it is equally important to inform the general public that the claim of these trespassers is false.

“The University therefore wishes to use this medium to inform the general public, especially our alumni and other stakeholders, that the University did not give any consent to any individual, group, company or association to obtain any license to carry out mining activities on its land.

“Furthermore, the University did not, at any time, sign any agreement with any individual, company or group for the purpose of mining activities on its land.

“We wish to assure the concerned members of the University, stakeholders, and members of the general public that the University is taking all lawful steps to stop the activities of these trespassers, which constitute a devastating environmental hazard to the University estate and are most embarrassing.

“We have the assurance of the Federal authorities that the complaint of the University is receiving necessary attention.”