Bauchi Governor Warns: Illegal mining crackdown will spare no one, not even my son

Bauchi State Governor Bala Mohammed has issued a stern directive to security agencies, mandating an intensified crackdown on illegal mining operations across the state. The governor emphasized that all individuals found culpable in illicit mining activities will face the full force of the law, regardless of their status or personal connections.

"Not even my son is above the law," Governor Mohammed declared on Tuesday at the Government House in Bauchi. He was speaking during a meeting with Major General Maxwell Dangana, the General Officer Commanding (GOC) of the 3 Division of the Nigerian Army and Commander of Operation Safe Haven. Mohammed specifically pointed to illegal mining in the Alkaleri Local Government Area and its neighboring border communities as a primary contributor to the escalating insecurity and banditry plaguoing the state.

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Not even my son is above the law.

The governor acknowledged that the substantial financial incentives derived from illicit mining have attracted influential individuals. However, he firmly stated that such operations must not be allowed to operate with impunity. Governor Mohammed commended President Bola Tinubu, the Chief of Army Staff, and National Security Adviser Mallam Nuhu Ribadu for their swift intervention following a recent security breach in Alkaleri, noting that their prompt response helped restore confidence among the local populace.

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The governor commended President Bola Tinubu, the Chief of Army Staff and the National Security Adviser, Mallam Nuhu Ribadu, for their prompt intervention following a recent security breach in Alkaleri, noting that the swift response helped restore confidence among residents.

Highlighting the critical link between security and economic development, Mohammed pledged continued logistical support, including the provision of vehicles, to security agencies. He also called for enhanced intelligence sharing and improved collaboration among the military, local government authorities, and traditional rulers to strengthen border surveillance and effectively combat criminal activities.

In response, Major General Dangana commended the governor for his consistent support of military operations in Bauchi State. He appealed to the state government to construct the strategic Mansur-Duguri road in Alkaleri Local Government Area, explaining that its completion would significantly improve troop mobility and response times during security operations. The Army commander reaffirmed the military's commitment to dismantling criminal networks and restoring lasting peace throughout Bauchi State.

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He appealed to the state government to construct the strategic Mansur-Duguri road in Alkaleri Local Government Area, saying it would significantly improve troop mobility and response time during security operations.