••• Defends Blasting Operations
The Managing Director of Dortmund and Company Limited, Mr. Pius Ayodele, has denied allegations of illegal rock blasting in Uluyagbo community, Akure North Local Government Area of Ondo State.
Ayodele, who was present at the site during an inspection tour led by the Ondo State Commissioner for Energy and Mineral Resources, Johnson Jaiyeola Alabi, dismissed the claims of residents that his company’s activities had caused structural damage to homes in the area.
He described the incident as a “case of trespass,” insisting that the company followed due process and engaged residents before commencing operations.
According to him, several meetings were held with the host community, while further discussions had taken place after concerns were raised.
Ayodele also revealed that one affected resident voluntarily relocated for safety reasons and that compensation talks had already begun “in good faith.”
However, he maintained that no compensation would be paid to alleged “trespassers,” stressing that the matter was already before a court of law.
“We have not acted illegally. This is clearly a case of trespass, and the issues are before the court. Claims of illegal blasting are unfounded,” he said.
The Ondo State Government, through, Alabi, had earlier faulted the company for failing to conduct an Environmental and Social Impact Assessment (ESIA) and for operating too close to residential buildings.
But Ayodele insisted that Dortmund had not violated the law, emphasizing that the company remained open to dialogue with legitimate stakeholders.
