Taraba Moves Against Thuggery, Illegal Mining, Drug Abuse as Kefas Signs Three Executive Orders
Taraba State Governor, Agbu Kefas, has signed three Executive Orders aimed at curbing political thuggery, illegal mining activities and drug abuse in the state.
The governor signed the orders on Sunday in Jalingo as part of measures to strengthen security, protect the environment and address social challenges threatening the peace and development of the state.
According to a statement issued by the Commissioner for Information and Re-orientation, Ms Zainab Jalingo, the Executive Orders are designed to provide stronger legal frameworks for tackling emerging threats and safeguarding the wellbeing of residents.
Kefas expressed concern over the rising rate of substance abuse and its connection with criminal activities, violence and social instability.
“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.
“The Executive Order provides stronger legal backing for relevant authorities to prevent, monitor, and prosecute activities related to drug abuse while supporting efforts geared towards public enlightenment, rehabilitation, and youth development,” Kefas said.
On the Executive Order prohibiting political thuggery, the governor said the move was necessitated by the approaching political campaigns and the need to preserve the peace currently being enjoyed across the state.
He recalled the efforts of his administration in restoring peace and security in Taraba, warning that his government would not tolerate actions capable of disrupting public order or undermining the stability of the state.
“The Executive Order prohibits the recruitment, sponsorship, financing, harbouring, or use of political thugs by any individual, group, or political interest.
“It is intended to discourage violence, intimidation, destruction of property, and other unlawful acts often associated with electoral contests“
Kefas also raised concerns over the activities of illegal miners, loggers and other unauthorised operators, noting that their operations had contributed to environmental degradation, destruction of farmlands and water sources, as well as threats to the safety and livelihoods of communities.
“This Executive Order strengthens measures against illegal exploitation of natural resources, promotes environmental sustainability, and protects the rights and welfare of communities hosting legitimate resource development activities”
The governor urged residents and stakeholders across the state to support the implementation of the new measures, describing them as necessary steps towards achieving lasting peace, security and development.
“ The government calls on all citizens, traditional institutions, religious leaders, youth groups political stakeholders, civil society organisations, to support the implementation of these Executive Orders in the collective interest of peace, security, and progress” he stated.
