A Federal High Court in Ikoyi, Lagos, has ordered the final forfeiture of assets linked to illegal mining activities in Ogun State, including a mining site, trucks loaded with mineral resources, lithium stones, and a 40-foot container, to the Federal Government. Justice Daniel Osiagor delivered the ruling on May 22, 2026, following an application by the Lagos Zonal Directorate 1 of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC). The assets were recovered from a syndicate of Chinese nationals and Nigerians accused of engaging in unlawful mining and the illegal export of mica and lithium stones.
The forfeited properties include a mining site located behind the Baale’s Palace on Ileposo Street, adjacent to 59 Street in Ode-Remo, Ogun State. Also seized were a Toyota 4Runner SUV with registration number AWE 261 AE, two trucks loaded with mica and lithium stones, and a 40-foot container holding large quantities of the same minerals. EFCC, through its counsel Bilkisu Buhari, sought court approval for the custody and disposal of these assets in accordance with legal provisions. The commission also requested collaboration with the Nigerian Geological Survey Agency and court officials to manage the disposal process and ensure proceeds are deposited into an interest-bearing account pending the outcome of the criminal trial.
According to an affidavit filed by an EFCC operative, intelligence reports revealed a syndicate involving Chinese nationals and Nigerians engaged in the illegal mining and trade of mica and lithium stones. The suspects were allegedly transporting these minerals from various locations across Nigeria to a processing site in Ode-Remo before packaging them 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 believed to be key figures and six Nigerian suspects.
During the raid, authorities recovered the Toyota 4Runner, three trucks loaded with mineral resources, and a 40-foot container containing 3,210 bags of mica and lithium stones. EFCC emphasized that the assets were at risk of deterioration due to the rainy season and had already begun losing economic value. The principal suspects have since been arraigned before the court on charges related to unauthorized mining and the illegal trade of mineral resources. After reviewing the evidence, Justice Osiagor granted the EFCC’s application and ordered the final forfeiture and disposal of the assets.
The court further directed that all proceeds from the disposal be deposited into an interest-bearing account pending the conclusion of the criminal proceedings. This ruling underscores the government’s commitment to cracking down on illegal mining activities and protecting Nigeria’s mineral resources. The case highlights the growing challenge of transnational illegal mining operations and the need for coordinated enforcement efforts. As the legal process continues, the forfeiture serves as a warning to others involved in similar illicit activities across the country.
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