Zamfara State Governor, Dauda Lawal, has signed an Executive Order prohibiting traditional rulers from issuing consent letters for mining across the state.
A statement issued by the governor’s spokesperson, Sulaiman Bala Idris, disclosed that the Executive Order was signed as part of moves to stop banditry in the state.
According to him, the order has banned all consent letters for mining.
“This includes consent letters to individuals, companies, or organisations for mining activities.”
The governor while signing the Order, reiterated that the decision was made due to the severe dangers posed by the rampant issuance of the consent letters.
“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,” Lawal said.
He said 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,” he added.
