House of Representatives to investigate N2bn linked to Mining Marshals commander and unit funding
via Punch Nigeria3 min read
The House of Representatives has initiated an investigation into the Mining Marshals following allegations of financial misconduct and operational irregularities. This decision stems from a motion by Mr. Abdulmaleek Danga, who highlighted concerns including a reported N2bn traced to a State Commander's bank account. The Mining Marshals, inaugurated on March 21, 2024, by the Federal Ministry of Solid Minerals Development and the Federal Ministry of Interior, comprise over 2,200 personnel from the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps. Their mandate is to combat illegal mining, secure sites, and protect government revenue. However, Danga alleged the unit has deviated from its purpose, lacking operational knowledge and wrongfully apprehending legitimate title holders. He also raised concerns about the redeployment of the commander linked to the N2bn, rather than prosecution, which has fueled suspicions of compromise. Furthermore, the transparency of the unit's finances was questioned, specifically regarding the procurement of operational vehicles without clear legislative appropriation. The House mandated its Committee on Solid Minerals Development to investigate the unit's operations, legal mandate, corruption allegations, and funding sources, with a four-week deadline to report back.
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This summary was AI-generated from a story originally published by Punch Nigeria.
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