Governor Caleb Mutfwang of Plateau State has suspended all mining activities in the state, citing security concerns linked to illegal mining operations and the influx of foreigners into mining areas.
The executive order, dated February 21, states that the suspension takes immediate effect and will remain in force until further notice.
“There is the need to ensure measures taken to protect places of mining activities in Plateau State and to ensure only persons that are licensed to conduct mining can enter or leave such premises. The suspension of all mining activities has become necessary,” the order reads.
The governor highlighted a rise in illegal mining activities across various local government areas, which has been directly linked to insecurity, including offences such as rape, banditry, illegal possession of firearms, drug trafficking, and kidnapping.
“There is an increased influx of foreigners in the mining areas of Plateau State, which significantly increased insecurity in the state, including but not limited to offences of rape, banditry, illegal possession of firearms, drug trafficking and kidnapping.
“I, Barr. Caleb Manasseh Mutfwang, the Executive Governor and Chief Security Officer of Plateau State, deemed it necessary to suspend all mining activities in Plateau State for security reasons,” the governor stated.
Mutfwang assured that his administration will collaborate with the federal government to develop strict mining regulations and a monitoring framework that will involve state authorities, local governments, host communities, and licensed mineral rights holders.
Additionally, he noted that the state government will conduct a comprehensive security review of all mining areas and establish an appropriate Community Development Agreement (CDA) to ensure that mining rights holders contribute to socio-economic development in the affected regions.
