By Stone Reporters News | August 6, 2025
📍 Akure North, Ondo State
🌐 www.stonereportersnews.com
In swift response to public outcry over alleged harmful blasting activities in the Uluyagbo Community of Akure North Local Government Area, the Ondo State Government, under the leadership of Governor Lucky Orimisan Aiyedatiwa, has launched a field assessment through the Ministry of Energy and Mineral Resources.
The assessment was prompted by growing concerns from residents who reported that rock blasting operations by a private company in the area had caused structural damage to nearby residential buildings — sparking fears for safety and environmental degradation.
Leading the delegation was the Honourable Commissioner for Energy and Mineral Resources, Engr. (Dr.) Johnson Jaiyeola Alabi, who condemned the alleged violations of federal mining regulations observed at the site.
> “No blasting activity should occur without a proper Environmental and Social Impact Assessment (ESIA). It is a legal and moral requirement,” Engr. Alabi stated during the inspection. “Furthermore, companies must engage directly with the State Government and affected communities before commencing operations.”
Engr. Alabi noted with serious concern that the blast site was dangerously close — approximately 30 meters — to residential properties, a breach of acceptable safety standards. He added that the government would begin independent data collection to effectively regulate mining activities across the state.
The Commissioner acknowledged the vast mineral potential within Ondo State but insisted that all operators must follow established protocols to ensure safe and sustainable exploration.
> “While we welcome investment in the mining sector, there will be no tolerance for operators who undermine the safety of our people or ignore State regulations,” he warned.
At the site, the Managing Director of the implicated company, Dortmund, Mr. Pius Ayodele, denied wrongdoing, stating that community consultations had occurred and that ongoing discussions about compensation were in place. He, however, alleged that some residents were trespassers and that legal proceedings on the matter were already in motion.
Despite the company’s defense, the State Government reiterated its commitment to defending the interests of citizens and ensuring that the mining sector contributes meaningfully to economic growth without compromising environmental integrity or public safety.
Also present during the inspection were:
Alhaji Bode Yusuf – Permanent Secretary
Engr. Abiodun Jones – Director of Mineral Resources
Engr. Bidemi Oladapo, and other ministry officials.
The Ministry assured residents of Uluyagbo Community that appropriate action would be taken following the investigation and called for continued public cooperation in reporting any environmental infractions across the state.
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