Insecurity: Zamfara Bars Traditional Rulers from Issuing Mining Consent Letters

Zamfara State Governor, Dauda Lawal, has signed an Executive Order prohibiting traditional rulers from issuing consent letters for mining across the state.
The governor signed the Executive Order on Thursday at the Council Chambers, Government House, Gusau.
A statement by the Governor’s spokesperson, Sulaiman Bala Idris, explained that the initiative was part of measures to check banditry in the state.
According to him, the order banned all consent letters for mining, adding that, “this includes consent letters to individuals, companies or organisations for mining activities.”
The statement said that Lawal Lawal reiterated that the decision was made due to the severe dangers posed by the rampant issuance of the consent letters.
According to the Governor, “today, as part of 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, 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 is 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.”