The Federal Ministry of Solid Minerals Development has launched an investigation into the ongoing dispute between the Osun State Government and Thor Explorations Limited, the owners of Segilola Resources Operating Limited, over taxation and operational matters.
The Minister of Solid Minerals Development, Dr. Dele Alake, announced the establishment of a fact-finding team to mediate and resolve the conflict, with the aim of restoring industrial harmony. The team, led by Dr. Mary Ogbe, the Permanent Secretary of the ministry, will also include representatives from the Federal Inland Revenue Service (FIRS), Ministry of Labour and Employment, and the National Association of Chambers of Commerce, Industry, Mines and Agriculture (NACCIMA).
The Minister expressed concern that local government closures of mining operations could harm the Federal Government’s efforts to attract foreign direct investments (FDI) in the sector. “Indiscriminate closures of mining operations by subnationals raises the risk of discouraging foreign direct investments and even worse, possible divestment by existing companies. Mining is on the exclusive legislative list. The Ministry of Solid Minerals should be consulted before such disruptive actions are taken,” Dr. Alake asserted.
Dr. Alake reiterated the Federal Government’s commitment to enhancing productive activities nationwide to promote economic growth, employment, and community development. He warned that halting industrial production could undermine these objectives, denying workers income opportunities and worsening adversity.
The Minister called on both the Osun State Government and Thor Exploration Limited to cooperate with the fact-finding team while allowing mining operations to continue. “I hereby call on His Excellency, the Governor of Osun State, Sen. Ademola Adeleke, and the management of Thor Exploration Limited to sue for peace and industrial harmony in the interest of the workers and their dependents who may be adversely affected by the closure of operations at the factory,” Dr. Alake added.
