The Senate ad hoc committee investigating alleged corruption and inefficiency in Ajaokuta Steel Company and NIOMCO has uncovered illegal mining activities at the National Iron Ore Mining Company, NIOMCO, in Itakpe, Kogi State.

Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan, representing Kogi Central district, raised the alarm on Monday during an oversight visit to the company.

She expressed concern over the illegal extraction of gold and other precious minerals within the company’s premises, despite its mining operations ceasing in 2008.

The committee discovered that illegal miners from northern Nigeria have been operating unhindered, gaining entrance to the company due to its lack of fencing.

The miners claimed to be working for various gold dealers.

The acting sole administrator of NIOMCO, Isinmidun Festus Loto, confirmed that illegal mining is a major challenge facing the company.

He pleaded with lawmakers to intervene and secure federal government support to provide security and protect the company’s equipment, valued at billions of dollars.

The Senate committee, in its findings, emphasised the need for urgent action to prevent further illegal activities and the potential breakdown of law and order.