In a bid to combat the rising menace of illegal mining in the state, particularly along the state coastal lines, the Akwa Ibom Stare Governor, Pastor Umo Eno has inaugurated a strategic and operational committee with a strong mandate to tackle the rise of illegal mining issue in the state.
Governor Eno expressed deep concerns over the the involvement of traditional heads and warned that any traditional head found to be involved in such activities would have their certificate withdrawn, regardless of their position.
The Governor also directed Local Government Chairmen to take charge of their areas and report any illegal mining activity to the state government as they work collaboratively to identify and prosecute offenders immediately.
Governor Eno also directed the revocation of lands illegally bought without the state’s knowledge to bring an end to the hazardous activities of illegal miners in the state and restore peace and security to the affected areas.
The committee’s tasks include profiling miners in the state, monitoring their activities, and ensuring compliance with the law.
The committee headed by the Commissioner for Environment, has Commissioners for Finance, Internal Security, Justice and Attorney General, the State director Department of State Security, Commissioner of Police, Special adviser to the governor on Security Head of Service, a renowned security expert, chairman of Algon and the Chairmen representing the 15 coastal local government areas as members.
