Taraba State Governor, Agbu Kefas, has signed three executive orders aimed at curbing political thuggery, illegal mining and drug abuse to strengthen security and public order.
The order was imposed in a statement issued by the Commissioner for Information and Strategy and Re-orientation, Zainab Jalingo, where Kefas stated that the measures were designed to address rising threats to peace, protect communities and safeguard the state’s natural resources while providing stronger legal backing for law enforcement agencies to tackle the offences effectively.
The governor, in the circular released yesterday, explained that the executive order became necessary due to the occurrences and menace of the acts in the society, adding that his administration would not tolerate any attempt to undermine the peace and stability in the state.
“The Executive Order prohibits the recruitment, sponsorship, financing, harbouring or use of political thugs by any individual, group or political interest,” the circular reads in bit.
“It is intended to discourage violence, intimidation, destruction of property and other unlawful acts often associated with electoral contests,” the governor said.
Kefas raised concerns over criminal activities and social breakdown, particularly among young people, adding that the newly imposed measure empower relevant authorities to prevent, monitor and prosecute offences linked to substance abuse while supporting public awareness campaigns, rehabilitation programmes and youth development initiatives.
He also bemoaned activities of illegal miners, loggers and other unauthorised operators, saying that their actions had caused severe environmental damage, destroyed farmlands and polluted water sources, while threatening the livelihoods of residents.
He said the executive order on illegal mining was aimed at strengthening measures against the unlawful exploitation of natural resources, promoting environmental sustainability and protecting communities hosting legitimate mining and resource development activities.
Kefas also urged citizens, traditional rulers, religious leaders, youth groups, political stakeholders and civil society organisations to support the implementation of the executive orders to ensure lasting peace, security and sustainable development across Taraba State.