- Safiu Kehinde
Taraba State Governor, Agbu Kefas, has moved to tackle political thuggery, illegal mining, and drug abuse in the state as he signed three new Executive Orders.
Kefas, as quoted in a statement issued on Sunday by the state’s Commissioner for Information and Re-orientation, Zainab Jalingo, said the executive order prohibiting political thuggery was informed by the approaching political campaigns and the need to preserve the peace currently being enjoyed across the state.
He recalled the efforts made by his administration to restore peace and security, stressing that his government would not allow anyone to disrupt public order or undermine 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“ The governor said.
Kefas observed with great concerns the increasing activities of illegal miners, loggers and other unauthorized operators whose actions have resulted in environmental degradation, destruction of farmland and water sources, and threat to the safety and livelihood in the state.
“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” He said.
On drug abuse, Kefas noted the alarming rise in substance abuse and its correlation with criminality, violence and social disintegration in the society.
“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,” the governor stated.
He called on all stakeholders in the state to support the executive orders for the collective interest of peace, security and progress.
“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.