By John Audu.
In an interview on Arise News Television, Senator Adams Oshiomhole, who serves as the Chairman of the State Committee on Interior and represents Edo North, made serious allegations regarding the involvement of some retired Nigerian military generals in illegal mining activities. He claimed that these influential figures are using bandits to carry out illegal operations and loot solid mineral resources across the country.
Oshiomhole stated that he was informed by a retired military general that bandits, previously known primarily for kidnapping, are now being utilized by these powerful retired generals to facilitate illegal mining. He explained that these bandits use helicopters to access remote mining sites, deliver weapons to civilians, and transport stolen mineral assets.
While reiterating his claims, Oshiomhole clarified that he did not imply that all retired military generals are involved in illegal mining. “At no time did I say retired generals are all involved in this crime. I have many retired generals who are struggling and have lived honorably,” he stated. He emphasized that his remarks were not intended to generalize the actions of all retired military personnel, describing such a notion as “reckless” and “sweeping.”
Oshiomhole recounted a conversation with the retired general, who had previously served as a returning officer during his tenure as national chairman of the All Progressives Congress (APC). According to Oshiomhole, the retired general expressed concern that the issues surrounding banditry and kidnapping were far more serious than political primaries. He revealed that the bandits are allegedly working for powerful retired generals and are equipped with helicopters to transport mined resources and distribute weapons to civilians trained to protect these illegal activities.
“The retired general warned me that if this issue is not addressed, what is happening in the Northeast will seem like child’s play,” Oshiomhole added, underscoring the gravity of the situation.
Oshiomhole concluded by stating that he urged the retired general to summarize his insights into a brief report for submission to the President, who is also a retired general. He hoped this would provide a clearer understanding of the challenges posed by illegal mining and banditry in Nigeria.
These allegations have reignited discussions about the intersection of military influence and illegal activities in the country, raising concerns about the security and governance challenges facing Nigeria today.
