Our attention has been drawn to an online publication titled “Court Awards N250Million Against Nigerian Government, Firm for Seizing Family’s Gold-Rich Land” (“the Publication”).
In order not to allow the general public to be misled, the management of Segilola Resources Operating Limited (“SROL” or “the Company”) deems it fit to respond so as to set the records straight.
SROL is operating Nigeria’s first large-scale commercial gold mine and the company is duly licensed by the Federal Ministry of Mines and Steel Development (now Ministry of Solid Minerals).
Whilst it is true that a Federal High Court judgment was given on 19 July 2023 in favour of the Plaintiffs, wherein the Court awarded a total sum of N250 Million against the Minister of Solid Minerals and SROL, we wish to inform the general public that both the Minister of Solid Minerals and SROL have since appealed the judgment of the Federal High Court.
We also want to correct the misleading information suggesting that gold was found on the “Plaintiffs’ land” and the government subsequently took control of the property and issued a mining lease to the Company without paying compensation. The Company hereby categorically rejects this narrative.
Segilola Resources Operating Limited does not engage in any form of illegality as the Company transparently complies with laid down procedures in all its endeavours. The Company remains committed to operating within regulatory and operational guidelines that reflect global best practice.
For the avoidance of doubt, under the Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, the entire property in and control of all minerals, mineral oils and natural gas is vested in the Government of the Federation and shall be managed in such manner as may be prescribed by the government.
It is the duty of responsible mass media to do their best to ensure fair and honest reporting. We wish to advise the media to refrain from making unsubstantiated allegations as we will not hesitate to pursue all available legal remedies where there are clear violations or infractions in respect of this matter.
We also expect that the interested parties will allow the judiciary discharge its responsibilities in line with the laws of the Federal Republic of Nigeria without influencing public perception.
SROL will continue conducting its activities responsibly, building mining capacity in-country and showing the world that Nigeria is a viable mining jurisdiction.
For: Segilola Resources Operating Limited
Austin Menegbo
Country Manager
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