Kebbi State Gov  suspends mining activates due to insecurity

From Our Editor

Governor Nasir Idris of Kebbi State has suspended all mining activities in the state.

This was confirmed by the Secretary to the State Government (SSG) Alhaji Yakubu Bala during a press conference on Friday in his office.

Bala disclosed that the governor has directed security agencies in the state to ensure strict compliance with immediate effect.

The SSG explained that the decision was informed by recent heightened security challenges in the localities sites across the state.

He said the decision was also informed by other concerns such as lack of verifiable evidence of corporate social responsibilities, and total absence of accruable reven

“For these reasons, the Government of Kebbi State under the able leadership of Comrade Dr. Nasir Idris had made a difficult but inevitable decision to suspend all mining activities until further notice,” he said.

“This suspension is a precautionary measure aimed at ensuring the safety of both mining workers and local communities”.

He said Mining falls under the exclusive legislative list, stressing that the decision for the suspension was made after a thorough assessment of the current security situation in the mining sites.

Bala said that the situation in the mining sites had raised serious concerns about the safety of those involved in the industries.

He said the state government noticed the apparent lack of verifiable signs of corporate social responsibilities in the midst of complete revenue generation.

“The Kebbi State Government believes that it is of utmost importance to prioritize the protection and security of its citizens and to safeguard against converting the mining fields as a veritable platform for breeding of criminals,” he stated.

“This scenario had manifested itself in other neighbouring States which we want to avert.

“The Kebbi State Government is not officially aware of the presence of the self-acclaimed Mining licensed holders and artisanal miners operating in our Mine fields nor is it deriving any revenue from mining activities.

“These are indeed, fundamental infractions”