The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) has made headlines with the arrest of 15 individuals, including 14 Chinese nationals and one Nigerian, for alleged involvement in illegal lithium processing plants in the Ogere area of Ogun State. According to reports from Punch Newspapers, Premium Times Nigeria, and Daily Post Nigeria, the arrests were made on Friday, October 23, 2026. The EFCC has not yet disclosed when the facility began operating or detailed the charges against the suspects. This development comes amidst growing global interest in lithium, a key component in rechargeable batteries and electric devices. The arrested individuals are expected to appear in court soon. As Nigeria seeks to position itself as a global player in the lithium market, concerns around the environmental and health impacts of such operations persist.








