Plateau State governor, Barr. Caleb Mutfwang, has lamented the increasing rate of school dropouts in mining communities and Local Governments in the State.
Mutfwang said investigations have revealed a frightening drastic decline in school enrollment in areas such as Riyom, Jos South, Bassa and
Barkin Ladi local government areas of the State, even as he vowed to tackle illegal mining, which he blamed for its significant contribution to the high rate of school dropouts in the affected LGAs of the State.
The Governor appealed to community and religious leaders, including well meaning Plateau citizens, to join hands with his administration to arrest the drift, which he described as a serious threat to the state’s values and future.
Mutfwang spoke during a church service at the COCIN Headquarters in Jos, the State capital, where he harped on the need for unity among believers as a foundation for sustainable development in Plateau State.
Be urged community leaders to take responsibility in sensitising their people, assuring that the government, in collaboration with religious institutions, will embark on an intensive enlightenment campaign to steer the youths off the wrong direction they were headed.
“Last week, I ordered a raid on all illegal mining camps across the state. I urge you to help our people understand that we are not trying to deprive them of their livelihoods. The devastating consequences of illegal mining are beyond imagination.
“We conducted research and discovered that school dropout rates in these areas are distressingly high. Many classrooms are virtually empty. Just last month, we also uncovered cases where parents in Bassa were sending their children out for child labour, we are tracking them.
“I appeal to all of you, as leaders in your communities, to take up this cause. May God burden your hearts with the urgency of this struggle so that you will rise above all affiliations and address your people. The church will play a pivotal role, and we will stand by our religious leaders in this effort,” he said.
The governor also warned of the environmental hazards posed by illegal mining activities, including land degradation, the destabilisation of residential areas, and threats to government institutions.
On the security situation in the state, Governor Mutfwang reaffirmed his administration’s resolve to resist any attempt to destabilise Plateau State. He emphasised that the people of Plateau are hospitable and accommodating, but they expected their traditions, values, and institutions to be respected.
