Gov Alia Prohibits Benue Traditional Rulers from Granting Mining Permits

Benue State Governor, Rev. Fr. Hyacinth Alia, has issued a stern warning to traditional rulers across the state, urging them to stop granting mining approvals without the consent of the state government.

The governor made this known during a thanksgiving event held in honor of his appointees from Kwande Local Government Area (LGA), one of the state’s key mining regions. He emphasized that the state government will no longer tolerate unauthorized mining activities, and insisted that traditional rulers must refrain from issuing mining permits without official approval.

“Anyone found violating this directive will face legal consequences,” the governor warned.

Governor Alia also reiterated his administration’s commitment to developing infrastructure in Kwande LGA, including the construction of new roads to ease the movement of people and agricultural produce.

On security, he pledged continued collaboration with the Federal Government and local stakeholders to combat the threat posed by armed herders. He warned that anyone found supporting or conspiring with criminal elements would be treated as an enemy of the state.

Expressing gratitude to President Bola Tinubu, Governor Alia commended the President for his ongoing support and concern for the people of Benue. He emphasized that politics should be driven by development and the well-being of the citizens.

The governor also urged his appointees in Kwande to remain connected to their communities and encouraged residents to take part in the ongoing voter registration exercise to strengthen democratic participation.