Taraba suspends mining activities over security threats

By Femi Bolaji

Jalingo — The Taraba State Government has suspended all mining activities across the state following what it described as credible intelligence indicating security threats capable of undermining peace and stability.

The directive was announced on Friday in a statement issued by the Secretary to the State Government, Gebon Timothy Kataps.

According to the statement, Governor Agbu Kefas approved the suspension as part of efforts to safeguard lives and maintain public order.

The government also disclosed that a new task force would be constituted to oversee security and ensure safe and responsible mining operations once the identified threats have been addressed.

Governor Kefas directed all local government councils and traditional rulers across the state to ensure strict compliance with the suspension order.

He warned that any violation of the directive would be treated as an act of defiance and would attract appropriate sanctions.

The governor further instructed community leaders and local authorities to promptly report any breach of the order to the nearest security agency.

The state government also announced plans to meet with artisanal miners next week to brief them on the prevailing security situation and outline necessary vigilance measures.

According to the statement, the engagement is aimed at keeping mining operators informed while strengthening cooperation between the government and stakeholders in the sector.

Governor Kefas reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to protecting lives and property, stressing that mining activities would only resume under a secure and properly regulated environment.

He also called on residents of the state to cooperate with security agencies and report any suspicious movements or activities that could threaten peace and security.

The government maintained that the temporary suspension was necessary to prevent any deterioration of the security situation and to create conditions for safer mining operations in the future.

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