Banditry, illegal gold mining in Zamfara : A grave allegation of elite complicity
By Dahiru Yusuf Yabo
Recent statement by Senator Adams Oshiomhole alleging that retired generals and police officers are behind the banditry and illegal gold mining in Zamfara State has ignited intense public discourse.
According to the Senator, these retired security elites are not only financing these activities but are also benefiting from the lucrative illegal gold trade.
This revelation, if true, paints a grim picture of how elite complicity undermines Nigeria’s security and economic stability.
Oshiomhole’s comments raise critical questions about the role of state and non-state actors in perpetuating insecurity and economic sabotage in Northern Nigeria.
These allegations go beyond mere criminality; they highlight the intersection of resource control, corruption, and governance failures in one of Nigeria’s most resource-endowed but conflict-ridden states.
The Allegation: Exploiting Gold to Fuel Insecurity
Senator Oshiomhole alleged that retired generals and police officers are deeply involved in illegal gold mining and banditry.
These activities, he claims, serve a dual purpose: enriching a select few while perpetuating insecurity to divert attention from their operations. The implications of such a claim are far-reaching:
1. Economic Sabotage: Illegal gold mining deprives the government of billions in revenue that could be used for national development. Instead, these funds allegedly finance the private wealth of influential individuals.
2. Perpetuating Banditry: Banditry creates an atmosphere of lawlessness, making it easier for illegal miners to operate without fear of accountability. This vicious cycle devastates local communities and weakens national security.
3. Complicity of Security Elites: The involvement of retired generals and police officers, if true, suggests a betrayal of public trust by individuals who once swore to protect the nation.
A Double Standard in Resource Management
Oshiomhole also pointed out a glaring double standard in the government’s approach to resource-related criminality.
While the military is heavily deployed to combat oil bunkering in the Niger Delta, the same level of commitment has not been shown in tackling illegal gold mining in Zamfara. This disparity raises important questions:
Is there a lack of political will to address illegal mining in Zamfara?
Are powerful individuals shielded from prosecution due to their influence?
Why is the protection of solid mineral resources not prioritized as much as crude oil?
Gold is a strategic resource, just like oil. According to reports, Zamfara has one of the largest deposits of gold in Nigeria, with the potential to significantly boost the country’s economy.
However, the absence of effective governance and regulation has turned this blessing into a curse.
The Link Between Banditry and Resource Exploitation
Zamfara’s situation mirrors the “resource curse” phenomenon, where abundant natural resources become a source of conflict rather than development.
Bandits and illegal miners reportedly operate with impunity, exploiting local communities and displacing thousands.
The profits from illegal mining are said to finance arms purchases and sustain criminal networks, creating a self-reinforcing cycle of violence and exploitation.
The Role of the Government
The government’s approach to tackling these issues has been criticized as inconsistent and inadequate. While President Tinubu’s administration has shown interest in addressing insecurity, a more comprehensive strategy is needed to deal with the root causes of banditry and illegal mining. This includes:
1. Strengthening Oversight: The federal government must establish a transparent and accountable framework for managing solid mineral resources.
2. Cracking Down on Sponsors: If retired generals and police officers are involved, they must be identified, investigated, and prosecuted. No individual, regardless of status, should be above the law.
3. Deploying Resources Equitably: Just as the government deploys the military to combat oil bunkering, similar measures must be taken to protect the country’s mineral wealth.
Way Forward: From Exploitation to Development
To prevent further exploitation of Zamfara’s resources, the government must adopt a multi-faceted approach:
Legalization and Regulation of Mining: By creating a legal framework that encourages artisanal miners to register and operate legally, the government can increase revenue and reduce illegal activities.
Addressing Insecurity: A coordinated security strategy involving the military, police, and intelligence agencies is essential to dismantle criminal networks.
Community Engagement: Local communities must be involved in decision-making processes regarding resource management. This will reduce grievances and foster a sense of ownership.
Conclusion
Senator Oshiomhole’s allegations should not be dismissed or ignored. They demand a thorough investigation to uncover the truth and hold those responsible accountable.
The issues of banditry and illegal gold mining in Zamfara are symptoms of deeper systemic failures, including corruption, poor governance, and the politicization of resources.
Nigeria stands at a crossroads. Will the government seize this opportunity to address these challenges and transform Zamfara’s gold wealth into a source of development, or will it allow powerful individuals to continue exploiting the nation’s resources for personal gain?
The answer will determine not only Zamfara’s future but also Nigeria’s ability to overcome the resource curse and build a more equitable and prosperous society.
Yusuf Yabo, MCM & MPPA (BUK), Political and Security Analyst
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