The Taraba state government has taken the extraordinary step of suspending all mining activities across the state amid growing security concerns, signaling a major shift in the administration’s approach to regulating the sector and safeguarding public safety.
The suspension, which takes immediate effect, was announced on Friday in a statement issued by the Secretary to the State Government, Barrister Gebon Timothy Katars, on behalf of Governor Agbu Kefas.
According to the government, the decision was informed by credible intelligence reports pointing to security threats capable of undermining the peace and stability that residents of the state have enjoyed in recent months.
Mining, particularly artisanal and small-scale operations, has become an important source of livelihood for many communities across Taraba. However, concerns have increasingly been raised about the security implications of unregulated mining activities, including the potential for criminal elements to exploit mining sites and surrounding communities.
In response to the emerging threats, the state government announced plans to establish a new task force that will be responsible for strengthening security oversight within the mining sector. The proposed body is expected to coordinate efforts aimed at ensuring that mining activities are conducted safely and in compliance with government regulations once operations eventually resume.
“The suspension is a preventive measure designed to protect lives and property while security agencies address identified threats,” the statement indicated.
To ensure effective enforcement of the directive, local government councils and traditional rulers have been instructed to monitor compliance within their respective jurisdictions. The government also warned that anyone found violating the suspension order would face serious sanctions.
Residents and community leaders have been urged to remain vigilant and promptly report suspicious activities to security agencies, as authorities intensify efforts to maintain law and order.
Meanwhile, the state government revealed that it has scheduled a meeting with artisanal miners next week. The engagement is expected to focus on new security protocols, vigilance measures, and the responsibilities of mining operators in supporting efforts to secure mining communities.
Observers say the move reflects the administration’s determination to balance economic interests with security considerations, particularly at a time when several resource-rich regions across the country are grappling with challenges linked to illegal mining and criminal activities.
While the suspension may temporarily affect the livelihoods of thousands of miners and businesses connected to the sector, the government insists that the measure is necessary to create a safer and more regulated operating environment.
As security agencies move to address the identified threats, stakeholders will be watching closely to see how quickly normal mining activities can resume and what new regulatory measures will emerge from the government’s planned engagement with operators in the sector.