Taraba Governor Agbu Kefas signs executive orders targeting political thuggery, illegal mining and drug abuse

Taraba State Governor Agbu Kefas signed three executive orders aimed at curbing political thuggery, illegal mining and drug abuse in the state. The orders prohibit the recruitment, sponsorship, financing, harbouring or use of political thugs ahead of the upcoming election campaign, seeking to preserve peace and public order.

The drug‑abuse order strengthens legal backing for authorities to prevent, monitor and prosecute substance‑related offences and includes measures for public enlightenment, rehabilitation and youth development. The illegal‑mining order targets unauthorised miners, loggers and other operators whose activities have caused environmental degradation, loss of farmland and water sources, and threatens local livelihoods.

The measures were announced in a statement by Commissioner for Information and Re‑orientation Zainab Jalingo, and the governor called on traditional leaders, religious figures, youth groups and civil‑society organisations to support implementation.