TheCable

Dauda Lawal, governor of Zamfara, has banned traditional rulers from issuing consent letters for mining activities across the state.

Lawal spoke on Thursday while signing the order at the government house in Gusau, the state capital.

He said the unregulated manner in which the traditional rulers approve consent letters for mining activities has exposed the state to grave danger.

The governor said the ban includes consent letters to  “individuals, companies, or organisations for mining activities”.

“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,” the statement reads.

“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.”