The commission’s Head of Media and Publicity, Dele Oyewale, said the operation targeted the four facilities suspected of engaging in unauthorised lithium processing.
Items recovered during the operation included bags of lithium-bearing rocks, 18 mobile phones, four laptop computers, two decoders, a television remote control and a trailer truck.
The EFCC did not disclose the identities of those arrested or specify the quantity of mineral materials recovered. It also did not provide detailed information about the alleged violations or explain which licences or regulatory requirements the facilities were suspected of breaching.
The commission said the suspects would be charged in court after investigations had been concluded. Their arrest does not amount to a determination of guilt, and the allegations remain subject to the legal process.
The development comes amid growing attention to Nigeria’s solid minerals sector, particularly lithium, which is used in rechargeable batteries for electric vehicles and electronic devices. The country has been seeking to expand mineral development as part of efforts to diversify its economy beyond crude oil.
However, illegal mining and mineral processing remain concerns for authorities because unregulated operations can undermine government revenue and raise questions about compliance with mining and environmental requirements.
The latest arrests also highlight continuing enforcement efforts in Ogere, where the EFCC previously reported arrests linked to suspected illegal mining activities in 2025.
Investigators are expected to establish how the four facilities operated, where their raw materials originated and whether the operators complied with applicable laws and regulatory requirements.
Further details are expected as the investigation progresses and the commission determines the next legal steps.
Reporting by TalkNaijaMedia
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