The Ibile Justice Forum, an advocacy group, has raised serious concerns over ongoing illegal mining in Iloro I, Iloro II, and Ibiri villages within Ado-Odo, Ogun State. The group urged state and federal authorities to reclaim farmlands and protect the livelihoods of the agrarian communities.

In a statement, Messrs Ifeoluwa Amoo and Ganiu Owolabi described the activities of an unnamed mining company as disruptive to agricultural development, economically damaging, and environmentally unsafe. They alleged that the community’s patrimony was being exploited for private gain, leaving residents disadvantaged.

The forum expressed alarm that traditional institutions, expected to safeguard local customs, were allegedly complicit in supporting the mining operations for personal profit.

The group highlighted that the Ministry of Agriculture had revoked the company’s approval to mine, issuing a directive on January 28, 2025, to halt all operations. Despite this, the company reportedly continued exploration on the site, defying official orders.

“The community’s livelihoods have been hijacked, leaving them in ruins,” the statement said. “The company’s actions, compounded by the collusion of some local institutions, are creating an environment that is unsafe and economically debilitating for residents.”

The Ibile Justice Forum called on the Ogun State and Federal Governments to enforce the Ministry’s directive, halt illegal mining, and restore farmlands to their rightful use for agriculture.