Governor Agbu Kefas of Taraba has urged the state's traditional rulers to work with the government to put an end to illicit mining and all other forms of insecurity in the state.
The governor made the decision When he met with the traditional leaders on Friday in Jalingo.
He argued that the state's present security issues demanded immediate action, necessitating closer cooperation between the government and traditional institutions.
“It is our collective responsibility to confront these challenges head-on and restore peace and security in our state.
“We lose innocent lives on daily basis, our communities are deserted with many people displaced. The destruction of properties have cast a dark cloud over our once peaceful state.
”While mining holds great potentials for economic growth, the unregulated and illegal mining practices pose significant threat to our environment, the economic and social sectors.”
He added, ”We must also find a away of ending illegal mining because it constitute part of the reasons why insecurity persist in our communities.’’
In order to solve the security issues the state is facing, Kefas stated that his administration would consult with the traditional leaders in order to benefit from their invaluable advice and knowledge as stewards of the people's cultural legacy.
The governor said that among other security issues, Taraba, like many other states in Nigeria, had been struggling with the scourge of banditry, abduction, intercommunal violence, and farmer-herder disputes.
The governor stated that since these numerous security issues had caused so much suffering for the populace, all hands must be on deck to address them.
In order to achieve sustainable peace in the state, he emphasized the importance of the people of the state putting aside their differences and embracing dialogue.
“That is why I implore you our traditional rulers to harness your influence and bring our communities together.
”You should ensure an atmosphere of understanding and togetherness by fostering peace at the grassroot, peace that will pave way for more development in the state.
“I urge you to use your positions as leaders to discourage violence and encourage young people to engagement in productive ventures.
