The Osun Masterminds (TOM) has criticized the Osun State Government for allegedly prioritizing revenue over the environmental management of mining sites.
The group expressed disappointment that the government, which has previously accused a gold mining company of various infractions, is itself focused on earnings rather than effective environmental oversight.
At a press conference over the weekend, TOM’s Executive Director, Prof. Wasiu Oyedokun-Alli, lamented the ongoing environmental degradation in Ijeshaland and called for immediate action from the state government.
“It is concerning that the state government has prioritized revenue over proper environmental management around mining sites,” Oyedokun-Alli said. “The recent statement from the government, which accused Segilola of several infractions, similarly prioritizes earnings over environmental concerns.”
He urged the state government to take action against prominent figures involved in gold mining in Ijeshaland, emphasizing, “We cannot continue to pay lip service to the proper management of our environment.”
On Thursday, the state government demanded N60 billion in dividends from the Segilola Gold Project, raising serious concerns about the company’s operations. During a briefing with Lukman Jimoda, Special Adviser to Governor Ademola Adeleke on Mining and Natural Resources, and Wale Bolorunduro, Financial Consultant at the Ministry of Mining and Natural Resources, it was revealed that investigations indicated various unethical practices, including alleged tax evasion and non-compliance with environmental regulations.
In response, the Segilola Gold Project dismissed the allegations as unfounded. Austin Menegbo, the company’s Country Manager, stated that Segilola has consistently fulfilled its legal and regulatory obligations, including timely tax and royalty payments.
