Gov Alia bars Benue traditional rulers from issuing mining permits

State Governor, Hyacinth Alia, has cautioned traditional rulers across the state to stop issuing mining approvals in their territories without prior consent from the government.

Speaking at a thanksgiving event held for his Kwande Local Government Area (LGA) appointees, an area regarded as one of Benue’s key mining hubs, the governor stressed that the government “will not tolerate any form of illegal mining in any part of the state and traditional rulers must desist from issuing mining permits in any part of the state without the approval of government.”

He further warned that anyone caught defying this directive would face prosecution.

Governor Alia stated that his administration’s commitment to improving infrastructure within Kwande LGA, announcing plans to build more roads to facilitate easier transportation of people and farm produce.

On the issue of security, the governor vowed to continue collaborating with the Federal Government and local authorities to drive armed herders out of the state.

He declared that individuals aiding criminals or conspiring with violent herders to attack communities would “be treated as enemies.”

The governor expressed appreciation to President Bola Tinubu for “his support and love for Benue people,” adding that “politics should be centered on development and the welfare of the people.”

He also urged his Kwande appointees to stay close to their constituents and encouraged residents to actively participate in the ongoing voter registration exercise.