Publisher: The Cable
Title: Water Manifesto: I shock, disbelief as protected gold miners operate freely in Osun
Author: Kemi Busari
Date of Publication: June 10, 2023
Citation style language: English
Pollution Type: Mercury, Heavy metals (from gold mining)
Impact Dimension: Environmental degradation, Public health risks, Cultural desecration (Osun-Osogbo Sacred Grove), Livelihood disruption
Actor Type: Illegal miners (local & foreign), Corrupt government officials (providing protection), Local communities, Security agencies
Response Type: Ineffective government crackdowns, Community protests, Calls for accountability, Investigative journalism
Evidence Type: Field investigation (journalistic), Eyewitness accounts, Scientific study (2022 mercury findings), Visual documentation
Policy Mention: Nigerian Minerals and Mining Act (2007), National Environmental Standards and Regulations Enforcement Agency (NESREA) mandates
Key Finding: Illegal mining operations continue openly with alleged official protection despite pollution evidence; mercury levels 1,000x above safe limits persist.
Health Risk Projection: Neurological disorders, Kidney failure, Developmental defects in children