Nigerian government responds to clash between mining officials and police following operative’s death.

The Nigerian government has responded to the clash between the Nigeria Police and the Nigeria Security and Civil Defense Corps (NSCDC) Mining Marshals, which culminated in the death of an operative.

On Wednesday, Minister of Solid Minerals Development Dele Alake warned individuals and groups against economic sabotage.

The police had previously detained three NSCDC operatives following a colleague’s death and claimed to have traced over N2 billion to the suspect’s bank account.

Commander of the Mining Marshals, John Onoja, dismissed the police’s allegations as false and blamed foreign elements and their conspirators for the operative’s death.

Alake described the Mining Marshals as a vital part of the federal government’s effort to clean up the solid minerals sector and boost its contribution to national economic growth.

He said that many who oppose the Marshals’ activities benefit directly from the illicit mining ecosystem, which has long deprived the country of substantial revenue and undermined legitimate operators.

“The Mining Marshals have achieved significant successes in curbing illegal mining operations and protecting the nation’s mineral resources,” he said. “It is therefore not surprising that those who have profited from illegality are uncomfortable with their achievements and are resorting to campaigns of blackmail and misinformation.”

Alake emphasized that the federal government remains steadfast in its support for the Mining Marshals, pledging continued provision of resources, logistics and institutional backing to enable them to carry out their mandate effectively.

“Anyone, whether a uniformed personnel or a civilian, who seeks to frustrate the noble work of these Mining Marshals is an economic saboteur and will be treated as such. That I can promise you,” the minister declared.