The Kwara State House of Assembly has begun moves to investigate the activities of mining companies operating across the state following a surge in banditry, kidnapping, and terror-related incidents in several local government areas.

Multiple sources disclosed that the probe is aimed at uncovering an alleged link between mining activities—both illegal and large-scale—and the deteriorating security situation in parts of the state.

The investigation, which is expected to formally commence this week, is being led by the Speaker of the House, Yakubu Danladi-Salihu. It will involve public hearings and engagements with security agencies, host communities, and mining operators, including local and foreign firms.

Lawmakers believe the recent escalation of banditry and kidnapping in areas previously regarded as relatively peaceful may be connected to the influx and operations of miners, ranging from artisanal operators to large-scale commercial companies.

Kwara State hosts a growing number of mining sites spread across several local government areas, with operators including small-scale local miners as well as major commercial players. Foreign firms, particularly from China and India, are also reportedly active in mineral extraction across the state.

Sources familiar with the investigation revealed that competition over mining sites, the unregulated movement of armed security personnel attached to some operators, and the presence of undocumented foreign workers have created security blind spots now being exploited by criminal elements.

The Assembly’s action follows a series of banditry and terror-related attacks that have thrust Kwara into national and international headlines, heightening public concern and increasing pressure on government and security agencies to respond decisively.

Further findings indicate that lawmakers may focus attention on the mining operations of a prominent chieftain of the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC), reportedly a close political ally of Governor AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq. The Assembly is expected to examine whether multi-billion-naira mining operations linked to the chieftain’s company may be directly or indirectly connected to the wave of insecurity, particularly rural banditry and kidnapping, in affected communities.

However, the Kwara State House of Assembly has stressed that no individual or company has been indicted, noting that the exercise remains at a preliminary inquiry stage and that all conclusions will be guided strictly by evidence and due process.