Residents hail sealing of illegal gold mining sites in Taraba
Taraba State Court Closes Illegal Gold Mining Sites amid Environmental Concerns
Mayokam Community, Taraba State — Residents in the Mayokam Community of the Bali Local Government Area have expressed support for the closure of two major gold mining sites, Gidan Boss and Gidan Star, by a state Mobile Court. The sites were sealed due to alleged environmental degradation and violations of state environmental protection laws.
The closures resulted from a thorough inspection conducted by the Mobile Court, which reported significant environmental damage attributed to unlawful mining practices. This enforcement action aligns with Executive Order No. 5 of 2023, aimed at protecting the environment, ensuring public safety, and prohibiting deforestation in Taraba State.
During discussions with the community, residents voiced their approval of the court’s actions. They contended that mining operations had caused extensive harm to farmland and natural resources while offering minimal benefits to local communities. Community leader Zubairu Sumaila noted that residents were not consulted about mining activities occurring on their land.
“None of the miners are from our community or even this state, and they have not involved us in their operations,” Sumaila said. “This closure is the best thing that has ever happened to us; we have seen no benefits from these activities, which have devastated our land.”
Sumaila called for the state government to extend similar enforcement measures to other mining locations across Taraba, emphasizing the need for environmental protection and the welfare of host communities.
Another resident, Tanko Abu, raised concerns regarding security linked to the influx of miners from outside the state. He referred to mining as a contributing factor to insecurity in northern Nigeria, particularly in Zamfara State, where many workers are purportedly from.
“The presence of miners from states like Zamfara raises security concerns,” Abu stated, praising both the Mobile Court and the state government for their proactive stance against illegal mining.
Community member Hajiya Aisha Jamartu echoed these sentiments, commending the court for its timely action. “What the Mobile Court did has long been overdue,” she commented. “We are pleased they have taken steps to address the threats posed by illegal miners to our communities and environment.”
During its site inspection, the Mobile Court received reports from security personnel who indicated that many miners were reportedly from Zamfara, Katsina, and Bauchi states, as well as neighboring Cameroon. Following the court’s findings, the affected sites were sealed, and security agencies were tasked with strict enforcement measures.
Residents also expressed concerns about local youth being exploited, noting that workers received minimal wages despite the high value of gold extracted from the region. Recently, local youths protested against what they described as exploitation of their natural resources. They further asserted that illegal mining has contributed to increased crime and drug abuse in the area, highlighting potential social repercussions of unregulated mining practices.
The Mobile Court urged community members to comply with government regulations and collaborate with law enforcement as efforts to protect environmental and community interests intensify. It reaffirmed that Executive Order No. 5 of 2023 remains in effect, warning that individuals engaging in illegal mining will face prosecution and penalties upon conviction.
The enforcement actions have sparked broader discussions regarding the balance between the economic benefits of mining and the necessity for environmental stewardship and community involvement. For residents of Mayokam, the closure of Gidan Boss and Gidan Star symbolizes a chance to restore damaged land, safeguard community welfare, and seek accountability from those exploiting their resources.
The Taraba State Government reiterated its commitment to protecting natural resources and maintaining environmental integrity while supporting communities affected by mining activities. The Mobile Court also expressed its determination to uphold environmental protection laws in the state.
