The Kwara State House of Assembly has launched an investigation into the suspected link between illegal and large-scale mining activities and the worsening security situation in parts of the state, SaharaReporters has learned.
According to multiple sources, the probe is set to begin this week and will be led by the Speaker, Yakubu Danladi-Salihu. The inquiry will involve public hearings and consultations with security agencies, host communities, and both local and foreign mining operators.
Lawmakers believe the recent surge in banditry and kidnapping in areas previously regarded as relatively safe may be connected to the expansion of mining activities. Kwara State hosts numerous mining sites across several local government areas, involving artisanal miners, large commercial operators, and foreign companies—particularly from China and India.
Security sources revealed that fierce competition over mining sites, the unregulated movement of armed guards attached to some operators, and the presence of undocumented foreign workers have created security gaps now being exploited by criminal groups.
The investigation follows a series of violent incidents that have pushed Kwara into national and international focus, heightening public concern and increasing pressure on the government and security agencies to respond decisively.
Sources familiar with the matter said the House will also scrutinise the mining operations of a prominent All Progressives Congress (APC) chieftain known to be a close ally of Governor AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq. Lawmakers are expected to assess whether the multi-billion-naira mining operations linked to the individual’s company have any direct or indirect connection to rising rural banditry and kidnappings in nearby communities.
However, the Assembly has stressed that no individual or company has been indicted, noting that the inquiry is still at a preliminary stage and that conclusions will be based strictly on evidence and due process.
