Owa Obokun vows to resist illegal miners in Ijesaland
By Deborah Oladejo, Osogbo
The Owa Obokun of Ijesaland, Oba Clement Adesuyi Haastrup, Ajimoko III, has raised concerns over the increasing activities of illegal miners in the region, warning that the operations have exposed Ijesa communities to environmental degradation and security threats.
Lamenting the destruction caused by unregulated mining, the monarch vowed that the Ijesa people would resist any form of invasion in the kingdom’s gold-rich areas during his reign.
Speaking at the unveiling of a video documentary on mining in Ijesaland, themed “Value-Creating Best Mining Practice and World-Class Environmental Stewardship,” Oba Haastrup emphasized that the people of Ijesaland are peace-loving but not afraid to defend their land.
He said, “Gold mining has been of interest to me for the past 10 years. Some speakers have rightly noted that it is a heavy investment. We need a coalition of investors—starting with local ones—before attracting international stakeholders.”
The monarch stressed the need for proper studies and consultancy from both local and international experts, including those from Canada, South Africa, and Australia, to harness the region’s 24-karat gold potential responsibly.
“We are aware of security threats from illegal miners. Let me be clear—during my reign, we will not tolerate any invaders. We have allowed peace, but we will resist exploitation,” he added.
Oba Haastrup also called for a new policy framework that allows host communities to benefit directly from mining operations, not just through development agreements, but as shareholders.
Chairman of the Coronation Media Committee, Mr. Shola Oshunkeye, noted that the event was part of activities leading to the official coronation of Oba Haastrup as the 41st Owa Obokun on Friday.
