ARTICLE: Before the Echoes of Nagasaki and Ibadan Explosion Reverberate on OAU Campus

I read in the media about the sardonic illegal mining currently ongoing on the campus of Obafemi Awolowo University, Ile-Ife. I have two compelling reasons to pen this article. Firstly, as an environmental activist, I firmly believe that no illegal mining should be condoned, not even on campus, due to its long-term detrimental effects on lives and ecosystems in the area. Secondly, as a student on this campus, I am deeply concerned. Before an experience akin to the Bodija explosion due to illegal mining occurs, as a conscientious individual, I understand that the repercussions of illegal mining spare no one. The dire effects will not only impact the illegal miners or the authorities that sanctioned their activities but will reverberate throughout the entire community, as seen in the tragic incident in Ibadan's Bodija area.

Before the campus witnesses an experience reminiscent of the atomic bombings of Nagasaki or Hiroshima during World War II, we must all speak up and hold accountable all those involved in the illegal mining currently plaguing the campus. Explosives, whether low or high, recognize neither purity nor innocence. An example illustrating this is the tragic demise of the U.K. returnee in the Ibadan explosion.

We, as students and residents of the campus and its environs, should be deeply concerned about the sardonic mining activities taking place on campus. This time, I refrain from solely labeling it as "illegal mining," though it is undeniably illegal, as mining should not be permitted under any circumstances on campus, especially in the staff quarters where many staff and students reside. However, it is possible that these illegal miners have obtained licenses from the Federal Government, with influential figures within Osun State possibly being aware, while the university authorities cannot plead ignorance either. Hence, one should tread carefully with the term "illegal," as their activities may have been sanctioned by those in power.

As I mentioned, everyone should be vigilant and sound the alarm due to the potential dangers that mining in a university setting like ours can pose. The chemicals utilized in mining are not environmentally friendly. For instance, mercury poses risks to the environment due to its toxicity, while sulfuric acid has the potential to cause land pollution and harm aquatic life if released into the environment. These, among many other chemicals used by illegal miners, have significant adverse effects on the lives of residents.

People must vocally oppose the nefarious actions of illegal miners, who lack empathy and regard for human life or property. They are the epitome of ruthless capitalists who prioritize monetary gain above all else. The lives of over 30,000 students and other members of the university community should not be endangered due to the selfish pursuits of a few individuals seeking to profit, regardless of any potential negative effects their actions may have.

The detrimental impacts of illegal mining on ecosystems, biodiversity, and local communities must be vehemently opposed. Without adequate regulations and enforcement to prevent illegal mining, the tragic events experienced in the Bodija area of Ibadan will continue to recur and this time around, it might be on OAU campus.

Adedapo Taiwo Emmanuel (Network) Writes from Obafemi Awolowo University Ile-Ife....

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