The House of Representatives on Wednesday resolved to investigate allegations of financial misconduct, operational irregularities and the legal status of the Mining Marshals, following claims that more than N2bn was traced to the bank account of one of the unit’s State Commanders. The decision came after lawmakers adopted a motion sponsored by Mr Abdulmaleek Danga, who expressed deep concern over the activities of the specialised security outfit created to combat illegal mining across the country.
During the debate, Danga recalled that the Federal Ministry of Solid Minerals Development, working with the Federal Ministry of Interior, inaugurated the Mining Marshals on March 21, 2024. The unit, made up of over 2,200 personnel drawn from the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps, was established under Section 3 of the NSCDC Act and the Nigerian Minerals and Mining Act, 2007, with the aim of protecting mining sites, safeguarding legitimate operators and curbing illegal mining.
He noted, however, that the outfit has been repeatedly accused of straying from its mandate. Licensed miners and mineral title holders have reportedly suffered harassment, wrongful arrests and disruptions to their operations, often accompanied by publicised claims of major enforcement breakthroughs that lawmakers say do not reflect the actual situation on the ground. These actions, according to Danga, have created confusion in mining communities and discouraged investment in the solid minerals sector.
The House was particularly troubled by the allegation that over N2bn was traced to the personal bank account of a State Commander of the Mining Marshals. Instead of being subjected to disciplinary measures or prosecution, the officer was allegedly redeployed, raising suspicions of internal compromise and prompting lawmakers to question the integrity of the unit’s leadership. Members also highlighted the absence of clear legislative appropriation for the Marshals’ operations, including the procurement of vehicles and equipment.
Several lawmakers referenced petitions from mining communities and operators who claimed that the Marshals often act outside the scope of the law. They warned that such irregularities could worsen revenue leakages, heighten insecurity around mining sites and undermine ongoing reforms aimed at sanitising the sector. Concerns were also raised about the unit’s chain of command, reporting structure and whether its establishment aligns with existing statutory provisions.
The debate further touched on the broader challenges of illegal mining in Nigeria, a problem that has cost the country significant revenue and contributed to insecurity in mineral‑rich regions. Lawmakers argued that while the creation of the Mining Marshals was intended to address these issues, the alleged misconduct and operational lapses could end up worsening the situation rather than improving it.
In response to these concerns, the House directed its Committee on Solid Minerals Development to conduct a comprehensive investigation into the funding, operations, procurement processes and legal foundation of the Mining Marshals. The committee is expected to scrutinise financial records of state commands, examine allegations of corruption and compromise, and determine whether the unit’s activities comply with the NSCDC Act and the Mining Act. The probe may involve public hearings, document requests and engagements with affected stakeholders.
The House expressed hope that the investigation will provide clarity on the operations of the Mining Marshals, restore confidence in the government’s efforts to reform the solid minerals sector and ensure accountability in the management of Nigeria’s mineral resources.
