The Nasarawa State House of Assembly has urged the Governor Abdullahi Sule to expel all illegal miners operating across the 13 LGAs of the state to address the escalating insecurity and related criminal activities in the state.
The house also recommended that the state government should enforce all legal requirements for miners seeking licence to operate.
The Speaker of the house, Mr Danladi Jatau, expressed frustration over the issue during Monday’s proceedings in Lafia, emphasising the negative effects of illegal mining, particularly in Kokona LGA, where it had heightened tension and jeopardised the safety of communities.
He said, “Our resolution is to acknowledge Governor Abdullahi Sule’s efforts in attracting investors to the state. While we support these initiatives, we cannot allow anyone to undermine them.”
He also urged the police commissioner in the state to mobilise forces to eliminate illegal mining operations.
Jatau affirmed the assembly’s support for government actions aimed at promoting peace and development by tackling the menace of illegal mining.
Earlier, Mr Daniel Ogah Ogazi (APC, Kokona East) raised the issue as a matter of urgent public importance. He commended the governor for his efforts in boosting investment but expressed concern about the recent surge in illegal mining activities, especially in Kokona LGA.
He said that mining sites such as the one named “Sambisa Forest” were creating negative perceptions and threatening local security.
He noted the discovery of lithium in Amba community, with mining activities spreading to areas like Agaza, Kware, Ego, Egboka and Agbadu.
He further said, “The Mining Act does not permit illegal mining, and we call on the government to address this issue urgently.”
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