Involvement of traditional rulers, government officials and foreign nationals in illegal mining has forced Governor Caleb Mutfwang to suspend explorative activities in Plateau State.

He signed an Executive Order suspending mining activities in the state and inaugurated a technical committee to review licences and compliance with the directive.

The governor explained that the decision had become necessary, as mining activities were posing a serious threat to communities.

Mutfwang lamented that children had abandoned school, while young girls had become sex slaves due to the negative consequences of unchecked mining operations.

Expressing anger over the widespread illegal mining across the state, the governor revealed that over 4,600 mining ponds had been abandoned by illegal mining operators.

He pointed out that the sector remains largely unregulated, while players operate with impunity.

Mutfwang said mining activities had begun to threaten residential homes while raising concerns over the involvement of foreign nationals in illegal mining, which prompted the government to take immediate action by suspending all activities until the necessary regulatory framework is in place.

He hinted at plans to create a “mining village” where all mining-related transactions would take place under proper supervision.

“The government will also empower local miners to generate revenue, and will strengthen security to prevent illegal mining,” Mutfwang added.

He appealed to all stakeholders to embrace the reforms with an open mind, stressing that the decision was for the collective good of the state.

In his remarks, the Chairman of the Plateau Council of Chiefs and Emirs, Da Jacob Gyang Buba, commended the governor for the timely intervention.

He warned that the devastation caused by illegal mining in Zamfara State could be replicated in Plateau if not urgently addressed.

The monarch urged the government to take decisive action against those sabotaging its efforts.

The Commissioner for Environment, Peter Lamba Gwom, emphasised that environmental degradation directly affects human lives, urging collective action to safeguard the state’s natural resources.