MMSD Moves To Restore Harmony Between Osun Govt, Thor Explorations

A fact-finding team to investigate claims of taxation and operational matters between Osun State Government and Thor Explorations Limited, owners of the Segilola Resources Operating Limited, has been set up by the Ministry of Solid Minerals Development.

A statement signed by the special Assistant on media to the Minister of Solid Minerals Development, Segun Tomori in Abuja says the team will engage both parties to resolve the dispute and restore industrial harmony.

It frowns at the closure of mining operations by subnationals as this could terminate efforts by Government in marketing opportunities for investments in the sector across the world to attract Foreign Direct Investments and provoke divestment

“Indiscriminate closures of mining operations by subnationals raises the risk of discouraging foreign direct investments and even worse, possible divestment by existing companies”, the Minister adds.

“Mining is on the exclusive legislative list. The Ministry of Solid Minerals should be consulted before such disruptive actions are taken”, he stresses.

According to the statement, the Federal Government’s interest in raising the tempo of productive activities nationwide is to boost economic growth, increase employment and community development.

“Any cessation of industrial production will undermine the goals of economic prosperity, deny workers the opportunity to earn income, and further contribute to the economy” Dr. Alake states.

The statement appeals to both parties to co-operate with the fact-finding team and allow production to continue while the issues are resolved.

“I hereby call on His Excellency, the Governor of Osun State, Sen. Ademola Adeleke and the management of Thor Exploration Limited to sue for peace and industrial harmony in the interest of the workers and their dependents who may be adversely affected by closure of operations at the factory.” the Minister notes.

According to the statement, the team is headed by the Permanent Secretary, Dr. Mary Ogbe, representatives of the Federal Inland Revenue Service, Ministry of Labour and Employment, and the National Association of Chambers of Commerce, Industry, Mines and Agriculture.

PR/Georgina Humphrey