By Obiabin Onukwugha
The Bayelsa State government has imposed a total ban on unauthorized and illegal mining activities across the state. It has also declared all existing mining agreements null and void.
The government has also warned community leaders against signing Memoranda of Understanding (MoUs) with illegal miners.
Governor Duoye Diri issued the ban and warnings at a town hall meeting with community leaders, government officials, and key stakeholders from Southern Ijaw, Brass, and Ekeremor Local Government Areas of the state on Monday.
The governor, who was represented by his Deputy, Senator Lawrence Ewhrudjakpo, described the unregulated mining of “black sand” (silicon) in coastal communities such as Foropa, Agge, and Die-ama as a serious threat to public safety, environmental integrity, and community health.
“The state has recently witnessed a dimension we are not comfortable with. People from outside the state are illegally mining silicon or black sand in our communities without government authorization, and that has to stop forthwith. It is both dangerous to the safety of our environment and health.
“Every MoU already signed without government approval is hereby declared invalid and of no effect,” he said.
The governor warned that while his administration remains committed to attracting investors, no business venture will be allowed to compromise the safety, security, or environment of Bayelsa State.
Diri, therefore, warned that paramount rulers and community leaders caught violating the order would face arrest and prosecution, noting that illegal mining not only breaches environmental impact assessment laws but also undermines security and deprives the state of legitimate revenue.
The Commissioner for Environment, Hon. Ebi Ben-Ololo, emphasised the need for compliance with existing laws regulating mining activities.
Traditional rulers and community representatives, who spoke at the event, pledged support for the government’s directive.
