The management of Obafemi Awolowo University (OAU), located in Ile-Ife, Osun State, has refuted claims suggesting that it entered into a lease agreement with illegal miners operating within its premises, addressing concerns regarding unauthorized mining activities within the university’s vicinity.
The clarification from the institution’s management comes in response to reports indicating the presence of illegal mining operations posing potential risks to students, staff, and the university environment.
According to the university’s Public Relations Officer, Abiodun Olarewaju, OAU has not granted consent to any individual, group, company, or association to conduct mining activities on its land.
In a formal statement released on Saturday, Olarewaju emphasized, “The University did not give any consent to any individual, group, company or association to obtain any license to carry out mining activities on its land.”
The statement underscores the proactive measures taken by OAU to address the issue, including lodging formal complaints with relevant federal government agencies upon discovering the unauthorized mining operations.
Furthermore, the university management assured the university community, stakeholders, and the public that necessary steps are being taken to halt these activities, which not only pose environmental hazards but also undermine the institution’s reputation.
“We wish to assure the concerned members of the University, stakeholders and members of the general public that the University is taking all lawful steps to stop the activities of these trespassers,” Olarewaju stated.
Additionally, OAU has received assurances from federal authorities that appropriate actions are being pursued to address the university’s complaint and resolve the issue of illegal mining activities within its premises.
