From Godwin Agia, Jalingo
The Taraba state governor, Dr. Agbu Kefas urged traditional rulers as the custodians of cultural heritage and the pillars of communities to collaborate with other stakeholders for immediate curbing of insecurity and illegal mining activities in the state.
He gave the charge Friday, during a meeting with traditional rulers to chat about the way to end insecurity and other nefarious activities rocking the mining space in the state.
A press statement from the Governor’s chief press secretary, Yusuf Sands, which was made available to journalists after the meeting by to the governor, quoted governor Kefas as saying: “As custodians of our rich culture or cultural heritage and the pillars of our communities and my administration, your guidance and wisdom are invaluable in addressing the pressing security challenges that has confront the state.
“The challenges of insecurity require urgent need for collaboration and the urgent need to curb illegal mining activities. Taraba state, like any parts of Nigeria, has been grappling with the scourge of insecurity. The rising cases of banditry, kidnapping, communal clashes, and farmer-herder conflicts which have caused immense pain and sufferings to our people.
“It is our collective responsibility to confront these challenges head-on and restore peace and security to our state. The loss of innocent lives, displacement of communities and destruction of properties have cast a dark cloud over our once peaceful state.
“In the face of such adversities, unity and collaboration is paramount. We must set aside our differences to embrace dialogue and work together to find a lasting solution so, I implore you the traditional rulers to harness your influence, bring your communities together, and foster an atmosphere of understanding and cooperation, by fostering peace at the grassroots that will pave the way for a harmonious and prosperous state”.
He continues: “I wish to urge you to utilize your power as leaders of our tradition to promote peace, discourage violence, and encourage youth engagement in productive activities, by leading by example and promoting the values of tolerance, respect and peaceful coexistence that can create a society where every citizen can feel secure, and go about their productive endeavours.
“The rampant spread of illegal mining activities in the state requires our immediate attention. While mining holds great potential for economic growth, the unregulated and illegal mining practices pose a significant threat to our environment, economic, and social values. These activities lead to environmental degradation, health hazards and exploitation of vulnerable communities.
“It is imperative that we put an end to these illegal activities by strengthening our regulatory framework, improving enforcement mechanisms and enhancing collaboration among relevant sectors, and by ensuring responsible mining practices in curbing illegal operations”.
Responding, the Aku Uka of Wukari, and chairman Taraba state council of chief, HRM. Ishaku Mannu Ada and the Emir of Muri, Tafida Abbas both expressed concern over the security situation in the state.
They suggested the government delegated power to traditional rulers to be able confront both the challenges of insecurity and illegal mining at their early stage, just as they said, some miners do claim to have obtained their license from the federal government.
