Zamfara: Gov Lawal Bans Illegal Mining After Ibadan Blast

In a bid to contain the activities of illegal miners in the state, Governor Dauda Lawal, has signed an Executive Order prohibiting traditional rulers from issuing consent letters for mining activities across the state.

Governor Lawal signed the order today at the government House, Gusau, the state’s capital.

The development comes on the heels of an explosion that went of in Ibadan, the Oyo state capital on Tuesday. The state government blamed illegal miners for the  blast which killed at least seven persons, and also got  over 80 persons seriously wounded.

According to a statement  issued by the governor’s spokesperson, Sulaiman Bala Idris, disclosed that the Executive Order was necessary to combat banditry.

The order said all consent letters for mining in the state have now been effectively banned.

 Governor Lawal said while signing the order: “Today, in my administration’s resolve to tackle insecurity, I signed an executive order prohibiting traditional rulers from issuing consent letters for mining across the 14 local government areas of Zamfara.

“As the Attorney General rightly stated, the mining activities in Zamfara have been identified as a significant factor contributing to the worsening security situation of the state, especially the menace of banditry.

“As a responsible government, it is crucial that we take decisive action to resolve the issue of illegal mining operations that have been contributing to the crisis. That’s why I have signed the executive order. We are taking all necessary steps to rectify the problems bedevilling the issuance of consent letters, which have been recklessly abused.

“We beseech Almighty Allah to guide us as we serve and safeguard the lives and properties of the people.”