By Barnabas Augustine
Concerned about the activities of illegal miners in some parts of Adamawa State, the government has taken decisive action to end the illicit mining in the state.
This was extensively discussed at an expanded security meeting in the state, which also reviewed the current security challenges facing the state and the country as a whole. Chaired by Governor Ahmadu Umaru Fintiri on Monday at the Council Chambers in Government House Yola, the meeting brought together key state security stakeholders, service commanders, local government chairmen, and first-class traditional rulers.
Briefing journalists shortly after the closed-door meeting, the Secretary to the State Government (SSG), Barr. Awwal Tukur, said that the state had taken proactive measures to halt illegal mining within its borders.
Addressing the negative consequences of illegal mining in the state, Barr. Tukur said, "Of course, we have seen these tendencies. We have learned from other states in the country and want to ensure this does not occur in our state. We have identified potential problems. The governor has recognised that his leadership must be proactive, not merely reactive to crises."
The SSG outlined the government's plan to implement palliative measures to mitigate the hardship being experienced across the country and which has led to protests.
When asked about the state government's food supply for distribution to alleviate hardship, Barr. Tukur replied, "Yes, we are gathering information. As I said, this is a proactive government. We don't wait for a crisis. And we must also be mindful of when to procure these items. This was one of the matters discussed here. If we purchase food at the wrong time, it will disrupt the market, and people will pay higher prices. So, we are being cautious and watching for the right moment. I'm sure you understand the implications of this data."
However, Barr. Awwal Tukur denied the receipt of a truckload of rice from the federal government.
"All palliative matters come to me. I have not received any information about 20 trucks of rice recently. If they are coming, they are on their way. But no one has informed us, let alone for us to anticipate such a large quantity," Barr. Tukur said.
Barr. Tukur attributed the peaceful nature of the recent nationwide protests in Adamawa State to the government's proactive engagement with all stakeholders and the public.
He emphasised that the meeting analysed the events, their progression, and the necessary actions for maintaining peace and stability.
The SSG added that the meeting also discussed the herder-farmer clashes in the state and explored lasting solutions to this persistent crisis.