Plateau State Governor, Caleb Mutfwang, has reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to tackling illegal mining, which he says has significantly contributed to school dropouts in mining communities across the state.
He, therefore, called on community and religious leaders, as well as all concerned citizens, to support the government in addressing the menace, describing it as a serious threat to the state’s values and future.
Governor Mutfwang made the appeal on Sunday during a church service at the COCIN Headquarters Church in Jos, where he emphasised the need for unity among believers as a foundation for sustainable development in Plateau State.
The governor, who was accompanied by his wife, Helen, said, “Last week, I ordered a raid on all illegal mining camps across the state. I urge you to help our people understand that we are not trying to deprive them of their livelihoods. The devastating consequences of illegal mining are beyond imagination.
“We conducted research and discovered that school dropout rates in these areas are distressingly high. Many classrooms are virtually empty. Just last month, we uncovered cases where parents in Bassa were sending their children out for child labour. We are tracking them.”
Mutfwang urged community leaders to take responsibility in sensitising their people, stressing that the government, in collaboration with religious institutions, would embark on an intensive enlightenment campaign to address the issue.
“I appeal to all of you, as leaders in your communities, to take up this cause. May God burden your hearts with the urgency of this struggle so that you will rise above all affiliations and speak to your people. The church will play a pivotal role, and we will stand by our religious leaders in this effort,” he added.
The governor also highlighted the environmental hazards posed by illegal mining, including land degradation, destabilisation of residential areas, and threats to government institutions.
On the security situation in the state, Governor Mutfwang reaffirmed his administration’s resolve to resist any attempt to destabilise Plateau.
He emphasised that while the people of Plateau are hospitable and accommodating, they expect their traditions, values, and institutions to be respected.
“All Plateau people seek is recognition and respect for their cultural values and traditional institutions. We will not allow any deliberate attempt to undermine our state,” he declared.
He stressed that unity within the church is crucial in achieving these goals, assuring that his administration will continue to work closely with the people to build lasting peace and progress.
In his sermon, the guest preacher, Rev. Agwom Magaji, drawing from John 11:25, spoke on the theme “I Am the Resurrection and the Life.”
He emphasised that God has the power to restore life to anything that seems lost or dead.
“The power of resurrection is in Christ Jesus. Every believer must acknowledge God’s power in their lives to maintain a steadfast faith in Him,” he said.
The Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps has arrested 29 suspects for alleged illegal mining and vandalism in Bauchi State.
The state Commandant, Mr. Oloyede Oyerinde, disclosed this on Saturday in Bauchi, stating that the illegal mining activities were taking place around Waya Dam, approximately 40 kilometers from the Bauchi metropolis.
Oyerinde highlighted the dangers posed by illegal mining in the area, including erosion, land encroachment, and security threats that negatively impact socio-economic activities.
“Acting on intelligence, the corps conducted a raid on January 5 and apprehended 29 suspects involved in illegal mining,” he said.
During the operation, the NSCDC recovered three motorcycles, six wheelbarrows, 15 shovels, five diggers, three hoes, three rakes, an axe, one cutlass, one sand net, two water hose pipes, and one water pumping machine.
Additionally, Oyerinde revealed that operatives also arrested a suspect for alleged vandalism and theft of armored cables at the Sir Abubakar Tafawa Balewa Tomb in Bauchi.
A handsaw and pieces of vandalised armored cables were recovered from the suspect.
The commandant reaffirmed the NSCDC’s commitment to protecting critical national assets and infrastructure while intensifying efforts to curb illegal activities in the state.
