NATIONAL Environmental Standards and Regulations Enforcement Agency (NESREA) yesterday said it launched a probe into Osun River pollution.
The agency noted that it received complaints on resurgence of activities of artisanal miners raising fears of environmental degradation, destruction of farmlands and contamination of water sources.
Director-General Prof. Aliyu Jauro, who spoke during a briefing in Abuja, said NESREA intensified its compliance monitoring which showed a large presence of Chinese miners, who with the aid of excavators and related equipment, mine and wash the minerals along or close to river courses.
Jauro said its officers from Southwest had been in Osun collecting water and soil samples for analysis to determine the level of pollution.
At the end of investigation, Jauro said National Environmental (Mining and Processing of coal, ores and industrial minerals) Regulations 2009 and other environmental instruments would be invoked against those involved in unsustainable mining practices.
He said perpetrators would have their facilities sealed and charged to court for violation.
‘’Osun River is a very important river in Southwest… this river is of interest internationally because it passes through Osun Osogbo Sacred Grove, a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
“In 2012, NESREA carried out sensitisation for artisanal miners in Ilesha, Osun State. The miners were enlightened on effects of their activities on human health and the environment, and were encouraged to carry out their activities in a more environmentally sound manner. After the workshop, 300 kits of personal protective equipment were distributed.
“Following reports, the agency intensified its compliance monitoring showing a large presence of Chinese miners, who with the aid of excavators and related equipment, mine and wash the minerals along or close to river courses.
“There was also high activity of artisanal miners who scavenge surface minerals at abandoned mine pits and wash them in nearby rivers, most of which flow into the river. The river has become more turbid with reddish colouration from disturbance of mining and washing…
“An investigation has been launched, with officers collecting water and soil samples for laboratory analysis…’’
Jauro said the agency would review the regulations to strengthen enforcement infrastructure, noting that the agency would strengthen its enforcement by building capacity and reviewing the regulations.