Plateau State Governor, Caleb Mutfwang, says illegal mining is a major trigger of insecurity in the state.
He made this known during a media briefing at the Government House in Jos, where he spoke on his performance over the past two years.
He explained that the state’s mineral wealth, which should boost revenue, has instead become a tool for bandits to fund violent attacks.
According to him, these criminals, backed by sponsors who supply them with advanced weapons, invade mineral-rich communities, displace the locals, and take control of the mining sites unlawfully.
To address this, the governor signed an Executive Order suspending all mining activities. Critics say the order targets small-scale operators, but Mutfwang defended the decision.
He said the goal is to properly regulate mining and protect those operating legally from exploitation.
READ ALSO: Attackers Are Not Spirits, We Want Arrests, Gov Mutfwang Urges Military
He described mining as a key economic sector that could benefit both the state and investors if properly managed.
He added that the temporary suspension would allow a committee to design a practical regulatory framework that ensures shared benefit and public safety.
Mutfwang also said violent attempts to displace residents for access to mineral sites form a large part of the state’s insecurity.
He vowed that his administration would act decisively to stop such acts and protect local communities from being forcefully removed.