Kebbi Govt Suspends Mining Activities Across The State
Kebbi State Government Friday announced the immediate suspension of all mining activities across the state until further notice.
In a press statement released by Yahaya Sarki,
Special Adviser Media and Publicity to Kebbi State Governor, the decision was informed by the current security situation and aimed at ensuring the safety of both the mining workers and the local communities.
The Secretary to the State Government, Alhaji Yakubu Bala Tafida who announced the measure at a press briefing in Birnin Kebbi, the state capital said the decision was a precautionary one being mindful of the fact that mining has been placed under the exclusive legislative list.
He said the apparent lack of verifiable sign of corporate social responsibilities in the midst of complete lack of revenue generation, activities at various mining sites raise serious concerns about the safety of those involved in the Industry.
According to the SSG, the measure was also taken in the light of heightened security challenges in the localities of mining sites across the state.
“There are also other concerns like the lack of CSR, total absence of accruable revenue, the ecological tax and development levy, among others,” he said.
Tafida also said that a significant number of the miners do not possess the requisite permits from the Federal Ministry of Mines and Solid Minerals and other observable environmental impacts.
The SSG added “The Kebbi State Government believes that it is of utmost importance to prioritize the protection and security of its citizens, and guard against converting the mining fields as veritable platforms for the breeding of criminals by unauthorized foreigners and non indigenes with questionable characters”.
He also express worry of the likely consequences of increased banditry activities in security compromised areas of Kebbi South.
Further to that, Tafida said the state government was not officially aware of the self-acclaimed mining licence holders and artisanal miners operating in the state, therefore found it expedient to address these concerns through comprehensive evaluation and strict enforcement of the extant regulations and seek to promote responsible mining, safeguard the environment, enhance revenue generation and serve as an effective proactive measure.
He concluded that “the state government has invested huge funds in the improvement of the security situation and will not rest on its oars in safeguarding the” economic prosperity of the indigenes in the localities where mining activities are taking place,” he said.
The SSG said:” Consequently, all miners, irrespective of their status are hereby directed to suspend mining activities immediately and relate “with State Ministry of Solid Minerals and Mines Development for authentication and documentation” as we have ordered “security agents to ensure strict compliance to the suspension order of mining activities until further notice.”