Bokkos LG Chairman Suspends Mining, Imposes Curfew over Attacks

The Chairman of Bokkos Local Government Area in Plateau State, Amalau Samuel Amalau, has officially ordered the immediate suspension of all mining activities.

This directive, which targets both legal and illegal mining operations, was issued on Sunday following a series of violent attacks on local miners.

The decision comes after reports of deadly assaults carried out by suspected militias, which have resulted in the tragic deaths of several young people.

The local government’s intervention aims to halt the loss of life and prevent further violence in areas that have recently become hotspots for criminal activity and resource-based conflict.

In addition to the mining ban, a daily curfew has been imposed on the Tenti and Mandar districts of the LGA.

The restriction, which runs from 5:00 p.m. to 6:00 a.m., is designed to enhance security surveillance and allow security agencies to operate more effectively within the affected communities and their surrounding terrains.

Chairman Amalau emphasized that these measures were taken after extensive consultations with security agencies and relevant stakeholders. He noted that the suspension is a necessary step to curb activities that might aggravate the already fragile peace in the region and to ensure the safety of all residents and their property.

Addressing the public, the chairman said, “Following the prevailing security challenges currently affecting parts of the local government, and after due consultations with relevant security agencies and stakeholders, I have approved the immediate suspension of all mining activities in Tenti and Mandar districts until further notice.”

The council has warned that anyone found violating the suspension or the curfew will be prosecuted according to the law.

Residents and business operators have been urged to remain calm and cooperate with security forces as the local government intensifies its efforts to restore permanent peace and normalcy to the area.