Mining Marshals Reject Kogi Rep's Allegations in Petition

The Mining Marshals of the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps submitted a petition to Speaker Tajudeen Abbas, contesting allegations made by Abdullahi Danga, the representative for Adavi/Okehi Federal Constituency of Kogi State. Danga's motion during a House of Representatives plenary on Wednesday called for an investigation into the unit's operations, funding, and legal status, accusing them of exceeding their mandate and engaging in illegal activities such as extortion and abuse of power.

In an eight-page petition dated July 24, 2026, signed by Commander Attah Onoja, the Mining Marshals dismissed these claims as false and damaging, asserting that they undermine federal reforms in the solid minerals sector led by Minister Dr. Dele Alake.

They emphasized their respect for the National Assembly's oversight role but warned that such allegations could demoralize officers combating illegal mining. The petition also referenced previous rebuttals to similar claims made by police officer CSP Abdulmajeed Oyewumi, asserting that the unit has not misappropriated public funds and operates with limited support from relevant ministries.