Insecurity: Gov Kefas Orders Immediate Shutdown Of Mining Sites In Taraba

The Taraba State Government has ordered the immediate suspension of all mining activities across the state over security concerns.

NEWSNGR reports that the directive was announced on Friday in a statement signed by the Secretary to the State Government, Barrister Gebon Timothy Katars, on behalf of Governor Agbu Kefas.

The government said the decision followed credible security reports indicating threats capable of disrupting the peace and stability currently enjoyed by residents in parts of the state.

According to the statement, the suspension became necessary to prevent any security breach and protect lives and property in mining communities and other parts of Taraba.

The government said it would not allow mining activities to become a source of insecurity or public disorder.

It added that the order would remain in force until the identified threats had been effectively addressed and the sector placed under a safer and more responsible framework.

The state government disclosed that a new task force would be constituted to strengthen security around mining operations and ensure that mining activities are carried out responsibly.

The task force is expected to oversee the sector and facilitate the resumption of mining only after the security concerns have been fully resolved.

The government said mining operations would resume only under a secure and properly regulated arrangement that guarantees the safety of residents and mining communities.

The government directed all local government councils and traditional rulers to ensure strict compliance with the suspension order in their respective domains.

It warned that any violation of the directive should be reported immediately to the nearest security agency.

The statement added that defaulters would face serious consequences.

The government also disclosed plans to meet with artisanal miners next week.

It said the meeting would be used to brief them on enhanced security measures and vigilance requirements aimed at safeguarding mining communities across the state.

The Taraba State Government reaffirmed its commitment to protecting lives and property, stressing that public safety remained a priority of the Kefas administration.

It urged residents to cooperate with security agencies and report any suspicious activities to the appropriate authorities.

The government also appealed for calm, assuring residents that the suspension was a temporary measure intended to preserve peace and ensure that mining activities resume only when it is safe to do so.