The state government of Osun has started work on cleaning up the river as a result of the contamination of the Osun River caused by the operations of miners in the state.
Additionally, it advised miners to remediate contaminated water used for their operations before releasing it into tributaries that flow into the Osun River.
Professor Lukmon Jimoda, Special Adviser to Governor Ademola Adeleke on Solid Minerals and Environment, said the government decided to clean the water and ensure its safety for tourists because the activities of the miners have a negative impact on some tributaries that flow into the Osun river. He was speaking at the start of the reclamation exercise in Idominasi.
A statement contained in the Ministry of Information bulletin which was on Sunday stated that the Jimoda, who was represented by the Permanent Secretary, Ministry of Environment, Oladele Olawuni mandated miners met at various site to always cover dugged site.
“The various activities of miners in the state has put Osun river tributaries under pressure thereby polluting the river which is a serious tourist attraction for different tourist globally. This necessitate the decision of the state government to clean it up.
“We have also made a point of duty to sensitise miners on the need to treat waters used for their activities before releasing it into the tributaries, as well as cover dugged site before moving out of those areas for safety of the people.
“Any miners who failed to comply with extant mining rules will either be fined, sanctioned and if possible, get his or her contract terminated”, he said.
Also the Director, Environmental Health in the Ministry, Biola Oni, while commending the contractor for already moving to site and commenced job, he said the state government was aware of the danger the pollution posed to residents, hence, the decision to bring back Osun river to its actual state.