Plateau State Governor, Caleb Mutfwang, has ordered a suspension of all mining activities in the state due to security concerns.
In an executive order issued on Friday, February 21, Mutfwang announced that the suspension is effective immediately and will remain in place until further notice.
The governor explained that his administration would conduct a thorough review of the security situation in mining areas across Plateau and implement a Community Development Agreement to address the socio-economic impact on local communities.
“The need to protect mining sites in Plateau State is critical, ensuring that only licensed individuals are allowed to enter or exit these areas. The suspension of all mining activities is now necessary,” the order stated.
It highlighted an increase in illegal mining and the associated security issues in various local government areas across the state.
The order also pointed to a rise in foreign nationals in mining areas, which has led to a surge in criminal activities, including rape, banditry, illegal firearm possession, drug trafficking, and kidnapping.
“As the Executive Governor and Chief Security Officer of Plateau State, I, Barr. Caleb Manasseh Muftwang, have deemed it necessary to suspend all mining activities in the state for security reasons,” the statement concluded.
The governor further emphasized that his administration would work closely with the federal government to establish proper standards and create a monitoring framework involving state and local authorities, host communities, and mineral rights holders.
