In a bold and unprecedented show of resolve, Bauchi State Governor, Bala Mohammed, has issued a sweeping directive to security agencies to go after illegal miners without mercy—declaring that not even his own flesh and blood would be spared if caught in the act.
The governor made the declaration on Wednesday while receiving the new General Officer Commanding (GOC) 3 Division and Commander of Operation Enduring Peace, Major General Maxwell Dangana, during a courtesy visit at the Government House, Bauchi.
Expressing grave concern over the rising tide of illegal mining activities, Governor Mohammed described the menace as a major driver of insecurity in the state and called for enhanced intelligence gathering and deeper collaboration with neighbouring states to tackle the scourge.
“I want you to intensify your intelligence. Don’t spare anybody. Even if my son is involved in illegal mining, deal with him decisively,” the governor declared.
He noted that some influential individuals and stakeholders, drawn by the enormous financial returns, were complicit in the illicit trade. The governor, however, assured the new GOC of his administration’s unwavering support for the military, revealing that the state would soon procure new operational vehicles to strengthen security efforts.
“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,” Mohammed added.
Earlier, Major General Dangana, who is on a tour of formations and units under his command to assess the security situation, appealed for the governor’s support in addressing operational challenges—particularly poor road infrastructure in parts of Alkaleri Local Government Area, which he said hampers troop movement and emergency response.
In response, Governor Mohammed disclosed that the road leading to Mansur, one of the state’s most troubled communities, has already been awarded for construction. He also urged the Nigerian Army to establish additional formations in other strategic locations, including communities around Azare and Tafawa Balewa, to further strengthen security coverage across the state.
