…Vows To Deploy ₦3bn Federal Security Fund For Operations
Ayomide Awe
The Governor of Bauchi State, Bala Mohammed, has ordered security agencies to launch a ruthless crackdown on illegal miners, declaring that no individual, including members of his family, should be spared if found culpable.
Mohammed said the growing activities of illegal miners had become a major driver of insecurity in the state, urging the military to intensify intelligence gathering and strengthen collaboration with neighbouring states to dismantle criminal networks operating in the mining sector.
The governor spoke on Wednesday while receiving the new General Officer Commanding 3 Division of the Nigerian Army and Commander of Operation Enduring Peace, Major General Maxwell Dangana, during a courtesy visit to the Government House in Bauchi.
According to him, influential individuals allegedly involved in illegal mining have continued to undermine efforts to restore security because of the enormous financial gains from the illicit trade.
“I want you to intensify your intelligence. Don’t spare anybody. Even if my son is involved in illegal mining, deal with him decisively,” Mohammed said.
He assured the military of his administration’s continued support in tackling insecurity, noting that the state government would channel the recently released ₦3bn Federal Government security intervention fund into strengthening security operations.
“We are going to purchase vehicles very soon. The Federal Government has given each state governor three billion naira, and we intend to use it properly for security. We are not going to use it for any other purpose,” he said.
The governor maintained that improved logistics and stronger collaboration between security agencies would enhance efforts to combat criminal activities, particularly illegal mining.
Earlier, the GOC, Major General Dangana, said his visit formed part of an operational tour of formations and units under his command to assess the prevailing security situation and review existing strategies.
He identified poor road infrastructure, particularly in parts of Alkaleri Local Government Area, as a major challenge limiting the movement of troops and delaying emergency responses during security operations.
Dangana appealed to the Bauchi State Government to sustain its support for the military in addressing operational challenges confronting troops deployed across the state.
Responding, Mohammed disclosed that the road leading to Mansur, one of the state’s security flashpoints, had already been awarded for construction.
He also urged the Nigerian Army to establish additional military formations in strategic communities, including Azare and Tafawa Balewa, to further strengthen security and improve rapid response across Bauchi State.
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