Plateau State Governor, Barr. Caleb Mutfwang, has identified illegal mining as a major factor contributing to the persistent insecurity in the state, explaining the rationale behind his recent Executive Order suspending all mining activities.
Speaking during a media briefing with journalists at the Government House in Jos, where he presented his administration's achievements over the past two years, Governor Mutfwang explained that the state's abundant mineral resources, which should be generating significant revenue, have instead become flashpoints for violent conflicts.
"Bandits, through their sponsors who provide them with sophisticated weapons, invade communities with valuable mineral deposits, forcefully displace residents, and take over illegal mining operations," the governor revealed.
Addressing criticisms that the Executive Order might harm small-scale businesses, Mutfwang clarified that his administration's goal is to establish effective regulations for the mining industry to protect legitimate operators from exploitation.
"Mining is a crucial economic driver that could substantially benefit both the state and investors if properly regulated," he stated, emphasizing that the temporary suspension would allow a committee to develop a comprehensive framework for managing this lucrative sector in ways that benefit all stakeholders.
The governor further highlighted that many security challenges in Plateau State stem from what he termed "mineral attacks" – coordinated efforts to displace communities to gain access to mineral deposits. He vowed that his administration would not stand by while indigenous people are forced from their ancestral lands.
The Executive Order is expected to remain in effect until proper regulatory mechanisms are established to ensure that mining activities contribute positively to the state's economy while minimizing security risks and environmental damage.
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