Governor Nasir Idris of Kebbi State has instructed security agencies to take control of the Presidential Artisanal Gold Mining Development Initiative (PAGMI) site in Yauri Local Government Area following a violent clash that led to the death of one person.
The directive was issued on Wednesday during the governor’s visit to the site, which has been at the center of a dispute between local miners and the company managing the initiative. The governor ordered an immediate suspension of all mining operations at the location until proper documentation with the Ministry of Mines and Solid Minerals is completed and peace is fully restored.
Governor Idris appealed to artisanal miners to register with the relevant authorities, stressing that this would help prevent further disputes. He also cautioned youths in the area against actions that could fuel division, urging them instead to embrace dialogue and peaceful coexistence.
The Maraba Yauri site in Ngaski Local Government Area has for years attracted artisanal miners and traders, serving as a busy hub for gold mining activities. However, the recent unrest has raised concerns about security and proper regulation of mining operations in the state.
By placing the site under the control of security agencies, the state government seeks to prevent further violence while ensuring that operations are conducted in line with the law.