Ogun illegal mining site, trucks forfeited to FG by court order — EFCC
Federal High Court Orders Forfeiture of Illegal Mining Assets
LAGOS, Nigeria — A Federal High Court in Ikoyi has ordered the final forfeiture of assets linked to illegal mining activities in Ogun State, including a mining site and several trucks filled with mineral resources. The ruling was issued by Justice Daniel Osiagor on May 22, 2026, following an application from the Lagos Zonal Directorate 1 of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC).
The EFCC reported that the forfeited assets were seized from individuals, including Chinese nationals and Nigerians, accused of unlawfully engaging in mining and the illicit trade of minerals.
The confiscated assets include a mining site located near the Baale’s Palace on Ileposo Street, a Toyota 4Runner SUV, two trucks loaded with mica and lithium stones, and a 40-foot container containing large quantities of the same minerals.
The EFCC had sought the court’s approval for the custody and disposal of these items, in accordance with applicable legal provisions. Additionally, the commission requested the court’s permission to collaborate with the Nigerian Geological Survey Agency and court officials to manage the disposal process. Proceeds from the sale of the assets are to be held in an interest-bearing account until the completion of the related criminal trial.
According to an affidavit submitted by an EFCC operative, investigations revealed a syndicate comprising both Chinese and Nigerian nationals involved in illegal mining operations and the unauthorized trade of minerals. The suspects allegedly transported mica and lithium stones from various locations across Nigeria to a processing site in Ode-Remo, Ogun State, where they prepared the minerals for export through Apapa Wharf and Murtala Muhammed International Airport in Lagos.
EFCC operatives conducted a sting operation at the site on May 9, 2025, leading to the arrest of two Chinese nationals identified as key figures in the operation, along with six Nigerian accomplices. During the raid, agents recovered the Toyota 4Runner SUV, three trucks filled with mineral resources, and a container containing 3,210 bags of mica and lithium stones.
The commission highlighted the potential deterioration of the recovered assets due to seasonal weather conditions, which could diminish their economic value. The prime suspects have already been charged with offenses related to unauthorized mining and trade.
After reviewing the evidence presented by the EFCC, Justice Osiagor granted the commission’s application, ordering the final forfeiture and proper disposal of the assets. The court directed that the proceeds from this disposal be deposited into an interest-bearing account while the criminal proceedings remain pending.
