…Commander Onoja Vows Crackdown on Illegal Mining Despite Political Pushback

The Nigerian Mining Marshals, a special unit under the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC), has recorded more than 400 arrests within a year of its formation, signaling a significant step in the federal government’s campaign against illegal mining activities nationwide.

According to Assistant Commandant of Corps (ACC) Atta Onoja, Commander of the Mining Marshals, the unit has arrested 405 suspects, charged 152 cases involving 252 individuals, and uncovered 599 illegal mining sites since its inception on March 21, 2024. These operations, he said, have not only curbed criminal activities linked to illegal mining but also enhanced government revenue and improved security in affected communities.

“The mining marshal operation is living up to its expectations. We’ve cleared 64 sites involved in criminal activities such as banditry and drug trafficking,” Onoja told Voice of Nigeria in an exclusive interview.

He attributed the progress to the leadership and political will of the Minister of Solid Minerals Development, Dr. Dele Alake, who he praised as “uncompromising in the fight against corruption.”

However, the unit’s activities have not been without controversy. Responding to calls by a traditional ruler in Nasarawa State for the removal of the Mining Marshals, Commander Onoja dismissed the criticisms as politically motivated and unfounded. He challenged the credibility of the allegations, which include claims of extrajudicial killings by the Marshals.

“It is appalling that allegations are made without evidence, no death certificates, no families stepping forward. Yet, pictures of supposed deceased individuals are circulated to tarnish our image. Those photos could be from anywhere, even the internet,” he said, warning that legal action would be taken against individuals and media outlets that spread misinformation.

Onoja explained that the Marshals’ operation in Rafingaba, Agwada Development Area of Kokona LGA in Nasarawa State, began after a formal petition and credible intelligence on illegal mining activities. The intervention in October 2024 led to the arrest of three foreign nationals and five Nigerians, although the main suspect and the company involved, Demigloba, are still at large.

Emphasizing the importance of accurate journalism, Onoja urged media professionals to verify claims before publication.

“If a journalist publishes a false report, I will hold the publisher accountable. We are open 24/7 to provide accurate information. Our office doesn’t even use doors, we are always accessible,” he said.

Beyond arrests, the Marshals have also focused on advocacy, educating mining communities on environmental safety, the importance of Community Development Agreements (CDAs), and the need for formal registration of operations. Onoja said this community engagement has fostered greater compliance.

“Fear of enforcement is prompting higher compliance. Our work isn’t just about arrests, it’s about sustainable development,” he noted.

Though illegal mining is prevalent across Nigeria’s 36 states, Onoja cautioned against labeling any particular area as a hotspot, citing the Marshals’ still-limited geographic reach. He added that the unit operates under a structured command system with specialized legal, intelligence, forensic, and operational units.

“We’re not just fighting illegal miners, we are tackling a network of collaborators, even within government institutions,” he revealed.

The Commander reaffirmed the unit’s commitment to President Bola Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda and the Ministry of Solid Minerals Development’s seven-point plan for sectoral reform.

“This fight is not for NSCDC alone. It is for the future of Nigeria. And we will not be deterred,” Onoja declared.