Taraba State Governor, Agbu Kefas, has signed three Executive Orders aimed at tackling political thuggery, illegal mining and drug abuse across the state.
The development was disclosed in a statement issued on Sunday in Jalingo by the Commissioner for Information and Re-orientation, Zainab Jalingo.
Speaking on the Executive Order targeting drug abuse, Kefas expressed concern over the growing rate of substance abuse and its link to criminality, violence and social disintegration.
He described drug abuse as one of the greatest threats to the future of young people, warning that it fuels insecurity, destroys families, weakens productivity and exposes communities to crime.
“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 said.
On the Executive Order banning political thuggery, Kefas said the decision was informed by the approaching political campaign season and the need to preserve the peace currently enjoyed across the state.
He recalled his administration’s efforts to restore peace and security, stressing that the government would not allow anyone to undermine public order or destabilize the state.
According to him, the order prohibits the recruitment, sponsorship, financing, harbouring or use of political thugs by individuals, groups or political interests.
He said the measure was designed to curb electoral violence, intimidation, destruction of property and other unlawful acts often associated with political contests.
The governor also expressed concern over the activities of illegal miners, loggers and other unauthorised operators, saying their actions had led to environmental degradation, destruction of farmlands and water sources, and posed threats to the livelihoods of residents.
Kefas said the Executive Order on illegal mining would strengthen efforts to prevent the unlawful exploitation of natural resources, promote environmental sustainability and safeguard the rights and welfare of host communities.
He called on residents, traditional rulers, religious leaders, youth groups, political stakeholders and civil society organisations to support the implementation of the Executive Orders.
According to the governor, collective support is essential to sustaining peace, strengthening security and advancing development across Taraba State.
