The Federal Government inaugurated a high-powered committee on Wednesday to investigate and resolve the ongoing feud between Osun State and Segilola Resources Operating Limited over taxation and operational issues in the solid minerals sector.
Dr. Dele Alake, the Minister of Solid Minerals Development, announced the formation of the eight-member committee during a press conference at the Ministry’s headquarters in Abuja. The committee includes representatives from both the government and private sector.
The committee is chaired by Engr. Imam A. Ganiyu, Director of the Ministry of Solid Minerals Development, with Dele Oye, National Chairman of the Nigerian Association of Chambers of Commerce, Industry, Mines and Agriculture (NACCIMA), serving as Vice Chairman. Other members include Pwol Dareng (Secretary), Dr. Vivian Okono, and representatives from the Federal Inland Revenue Service, Nigeria Investment Promotion Council, and the Federal Ministry of Labour and Employment.
Alake stated that the committee is tasked with investigating the nature of the conflict between Osun State and Segilola Resources concerning gold exploration and mining activities. He emphasized the need for actionable recommendations that promote sustainable mining practices benefiting both the state and the company.
“The committee will identify the root causes of the disagreement, review contractual obligations, assess the socio-economic and environmental impacts of Segilola’s operations, and propose solutions to safeguard the interests of the state and local communities,” Alake said.
The committee is expected to report back within seven days, conducting thorough consultations with the Osun State Government, Segilola Resources, and relevant stakeholders, including local communities and legal experts.
Alake noted that the committee will review grievances related to environmental degradation and corporate social responsibility, providing a forum for mediation to facilitate an amicable resolution.
He expressed concern that ongoing disputes could harm Nigeria’s investment climate, urging state governments to route complaints to the Ministry rather than acting independently.
Vice Chairman Dele Oye affirmed the committee’s commitment to resolving the issues within the given timeframe.