Plateau State Governor Caleb Mutfwang has decisively suspended all mining activities in the state to protect the environment, confront security challenges, and ensure the well-being of its citizens.
This action follows the recent arrest of over 100 illegal miners, underscoring the urgent need to address the significant rise in school dropouts in mining communities.
Governor Mutfwang made the announcement at a stakeholders’ engagement held at the Twin Theater, New Government House, Jos, where he brought together traditional rulers, community leaders, local government chairmen, and representatives from affected mining communities.
The suspension is crucial to eliminate illegal mining, combat land degradation, eradicate child labour, and tackle escalating security threats, particularly the influx of unregulated foreign miners, which has exacerbated banditry, kidnapping, drug trafficking, and illegal firearms possession in mining areas.
While Governor Mutfwang takes this bold stance, the Minister of Solid Mineral Development, Dele Alake, has expressed a contrasting opinion. In a viral video from Jos, Alake claimed that no state can interfere in mining operations, framing the issue as a constitutional matter. However, this viewpoint undermines the pressing need for local governance to prioritise the safety and welfare of its people.
Mr. Steve Aluko, North Central Zonal Coordinator of the Civil Liberties Organization (CLO), acknowledged the suspension as a positive development but emphasised that it is not a comprehensive solution. He called for additional programs to ensure higher school enrollment in mining communities.
Regarding security, Aluko underscored the necessity for security agencies to remain vigilant against the potential chaos that could arise from the influx of foreign individuals masquerading as miners. He firmly stated that such individuals must be prosecuted if apprehended, serving as a strong deterrent to others.
Governor Mutfwang firmly stated, “As the State’s Chief Security Officer, it is my duty to guarantee the safety of our people. We must take immediate and decisive action with the rising security concerns associated with illegal mining. All mining operations are hereby suspended until further notice. This measure is critical for restoring order and ensuring that Plateau’s resources are effectively managed for the benefit of its people.”
To establish a structured and sustainable approach to mining, the state government will collaborate with the federal government, local authorities, host communities, and mineral rights holders to create a robust monitoring framework and enforce Community Development Agreements (CDA), which will secure vital socio-economic benefits for host communities.
Governor Mutfwang reiterated that this initiative is not aimed at targeting individuals or hindering economic progress but is focused on ensuring responsible and sustainable mining practices.
He has also inaugurated a Technical Committee on Mining Reform, chaired by the Commissioner for Justice, Barr. Philemon Dafver is tasked with verifying mining licenses, ensuring regulatory compliance, and collecting data on mining sites to enhance resource management.
This committee will also impose strict regulations on illegal mining operations, address environmental and security concerns, and recommend designated mining areas to prevent encroachment on residential lands, among other critical responsibilities.
Meanwhile, His Majesty Da Jacob Gyang Buba, the Gbong Gwom Jos and Plateau State Council of Chiefs and Emirs Chairman, has fully endorsed Governor Mutfwang’s decision. He assured the governor of the unwavering support of traditional rulers in implementing the Executive Order designed to protect the people and secure the future of Plateau State.
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