By Aliyu Abdulwahid
The Transition Committee Chairman of Lokoja Local Government Comrade Abdullahi Adamu on Tuesday, 19th March, 2024 summoned a meeting at his office to address the activities of illegal miners in some communities in Lokoja Local Government Area.
In a statement signed by the special adviser on media to the chairman,comrade Illiyasu Zakari obtained by THEANALYSTNG on Tuesday Said that reliable Intel made available to him has indicated the surge of illegal mining in places like Jakura, Oyo, Buge and Doggi communities etc hence the need to summon the traditional rulers in the affected areas to the meeting to find a solution.
Abdullahi noted the illegal activities of the miner has caused the spike in Crimes in these Communities. “We must do everything within our powers to rid our communities of these illegal activities. Not only the upsurge of crimes like kidnapping which is beginning to resurface in our communities, the activities of the illegal miners and unregulated mining will cause serious environmental degradation impacting on biodiversity and harming the ecosystems.
“It will lead to social conflicts, displacement of indigenous peoples, and loss of livelihood in the affected areas.”the statement said.
These Illegal mining operations he noted are often conducted without regard for safety standards, resulting in accidents, injuries, and even fatalities for miners and nearby residents.
The meeting resolved to call for an enlarged meeting of Stakeholders to holistically address the issue.
The action is in line with clear directive of the Kogi State Governor, Alhaji Ahmed Usman Ododo to all Local Government Caretaker Chairmen to ensure they nip all form of insecurities in the bud and maintain safety of lives and properties of the citizens.
