The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) has arrested 15 suspects, including 14 Chinese nationals and one Nigerian, over alleged illegal lithium processing activities in Ogun State.
The suspects were arrested at four processing plants in the Ogere area on Friday, October 23, 2026, following intelligence gathering and surveillance by operatives of the commission’s Lagos Zonal Directorate 2.
The EFCC disclosed the arrests in a statement issued on Monday, October 26, as Nigeria intensifies efforts to tackle illegal activities in its solid minerals sector.
How EFCC Uncovered Illegal Lithium Plants in Ogun
According to the commission, the operation followed intelligence reports about suspected unauthorised lithium processing activities in Ogere.
EFCC operatives subsequently raided four facilities and arrested the 15 suspects.
The agency’s Head of Media and Publicity, Dele Oyewale, confirmed that several items were recovered during the operation.
These included bags of lithium rocks, 18 mobile devices, four laptop computers, two decoders, a television remote control and a trailer truck.
However, the commission did not disclose the identities of the suspects, the quantity of lithium recovered or the ownership of the facilities.
It also did not specify which licences or regulatory approvals the plants allegedly lacked.
EFCC to Prosecute Suspects After Investigation
The anti-graft agency said investigations into the alleged illegal processing activities were ongoing.
The commission confirmed that the suspects would face prosecution after investigators conclude their inquiries.
Authorities have yet to disclose the specific charges that may be filed against the suspects.
The arrests highlight growing scrutiny of activities involving Nigeria’s mineral resources, particularly lithium.
Why Lithium Is Important to Nigeria’s Economy
Lithium is a strategic mineral used in manufacturing rechargeable batteries for electric vehicles, smartphones and renewable energy storage systems.
Demand for the mineral has increased as countries invest in electric mobility and cleaner energy technologies.
Nigeria has significant lithium deposits and is seeking to develop its solid minerals industry as part of efforts to diversify the economy beyond crude oil.
However, unauthorised mining and processing activities raise concerns about regulatory compliance, environmental protection and government revenue.
Nigeria Intensifies Crackdown on Illegal Mining
The latest arrests follow previous enforcement operations targeting suspected illegal mineral extraction across Nigeria.
In July 2026, federal authorities shut down an illegal gold mining location in Osun State and arrested two suspects.
Earlier operations also led to the prosecution of foreign nationals accused of illegal dealings in solid minerals.
The government has maintained that developing the mining sector requires stronger regulation and greater accountability.
What Happens Next?
The EFCC is expected to continue investigating the four processing facilities, including their ownership and alleged activities.
Further details may emerge when the commission concludes its investigation and files charges.
For now, the 15 individuals remain suspects, and the allegations against them have not been determined by a court.
The case highlights the challenge of protecting Nigeria’s mineral resources while encouraging legitimate investment in the growing lithium industry.
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