In a harrowing incident, a landslide attributed to the activities of illegal miners has resulted in the loss of at least 30 lives in the Kuje Area Council of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Abuja. This catastrophe underscores the perils posed by unregulated mining practices in the region.
In a related development, the Bwari Area Council of Abuja witnessed the abduction of 19 individuals on a fateful Thursday, further highlighting the pressing security concerns in the nation’s capital.
During a meeting between the FCT Minister, Nyesom Wike, and six Area Councils Chairmen, the council area chairman disclosed these distressing events. Expressing shock and concern, Wike pledged to take decisive action. He revealed plans to meet with the Director of the Department of State Services (DSS) and the Commissioner of Police to gather information about the abductions and initiate rescue operations. Additionally, he directed the council leaders to establish surveillance task forces to monitor mining activities.
Wike assured that he would also engage with his counterpart in the Ministry of Solid Minerals, Dele Alake, to address the issue of illegal mining in the FCT.
The challenges facing the Area Councils extend beyond security issues. Danladi Chiya, the chairman of Kwali Area Council, emphasized the urgent need for assistance from the Minister. Inadequate funding, insecurity, development of satellite towns, sanitation, and land allocation were among the challenges highlighted. He stressed the importance of equitable land allocation and urged for support in resolving these issues.
Abdullahi Sabo, the Kuje Area Council Chairman, voiced his concerns about illegal mining activities. He raised alarm over indiscriminate mining licenses and the insecurity resulting from these practices. Sabo pleaded for the intervention of the Minister of Mines to halt mining activities in the FCT.
In response to the impassioned pleas of the council chairmen, Nyesom Wike promised to address their concerns, emphasizing his commitment to serving the FCT regardless of political affiliations. He stressed the importance of collaboration between the councils and his administration and assured that their interests would be protected. Wike also acknowledged the need for improved security, effective sanitation, and the mitigation of illegal mining activities.
As the FCT grapples with these multifaceted challenges, the community looks to its leadership for swift and effective solutions. A sense of urgency prevails, demanding coordinated efforts to ensure the safety and well-being of all residents in the capital region.
