Taraba gov signs executive orders to tackle political thuggery, illegal mining

Taraba State Governor Agbu Kefas has enacted three executive orders to address pressing issues within the state: political thuggery, illegal mining, and drug abuse. The governor's actions come as a response to the alarming rise in substance abuse, which he linked to increased criminality, violence, and social breakdown.

“

Drug abuse remains one of the greatest threats to the future of our young people. It fuels insecurity, destroys families, undermines productivity, and exposes communities to various forms of crime.

"Drug abuse remains one of the greatest threats to the future of our young people. It fuels insecurity, destroys families, undermines productivity, and exposes communities to various forms of crime," stated Kefas. The new executive order provides a stronger legal framework for authorities to prevent, monitor, and prosecute drug-related activities, while also supporting public awareness campaigns and rehabilitation efforts.

In anticipation of upcoming political campaigns, another executive order specifically targets political thuggery. Governor Kefas emphasized the need to maintain the current peace in the state, recalling his administration's efforts to restore security. The order prohibits the recruitment, sponsorship, financing, or use of political thugs, aiming to deter violence, intimidation, and property destruction often associated with electoral contests.

“

The Executive Order prohibits the recruitment, sponsorship, financing, harbouring, or use of political thugs by any individual, group, or political interest.

Concerns over illegal mining and logging activities, which have led to environmental degradation and threatened livelihoods, prompted a third executive order. This measure strengthens efforts against the illegal exploitation of natural resources, promotes environmental sustainability, and protects communities hosting legitimate resource development. Governor Kefas called for broad support from citizens, traditional and religious leaders, youth groups, political stakeholders, and civil society organizations to ensure the successful implementation of these orders for the collective benefit of peace, security, and progress.

“

The government calls on all citizens, traditional institutions, religious leaders, youth groups, political stakeholders and civil society organisations to support the implementation of these Executive Orders in the collective interest of peace, security, and progress.