According to the commission, the suspects were apprehended at four lithium processing facilities allegedly operating illegally in the area.
During the operation, EFCC operatives recovered several items, including bags of lithium rocks, 18 mobile phones, four laptop computers, two decoders, a television remote control and a trailer truck.
The commission’s Head of Media and Publicity, Dele Oyewale, confirmed the development on Monday, October 26, stating that investigations were ongoing.
The EFCC said the suspects would be charged to court after the conclusion of investigations.
However, the commission has not disclosed the identities of the suspects or provided further details about the ownership of the facilities and the specific regulatory violations allegedly committed.
Lithium is an important mineral used in the production of rechargeable batteries for mobile phones, electric vehicles and energy storage systems. Nigeria has continued to attract interest in its solid minerals sector as the government seeks to diversify the economy beyond crude oil.
The latest arrests highlight ongoing efforts by authorities to tackle suspected illegal activities involving the country’s mineral resources and ensure compliance with relevant regulations.
