Gov. Caleb Mutfwang of Plateau has decried the spate of illegal mining activities in the state, saying it is negatively affecting school enrolment.

Mr Mutfwang raised the alarm after Sunday service at the Headquarters of the Church of Christ in Nations (COCIN), on Sunday in Jos.

The governor, therefore, called on religious leaders and parents to support the government in its efforts towards tackling the menace.

He stressed that illegal mining activity had significantly contributed to a rise in the number of school dropouts in some communities in the state.

Mr Mutfwang, who noted the danger illegal mining activities posed to humans and the environment, cited Bassa, Riyom, Jos South and Barkin Ladi local government areas (LGAs), as the worst hit.

“We conducted research and discovered that school dropouts in communities in Bassa, Riyom, Jos South and Barkin Ladi LGAs were distressingly high due to the volume of illegal mining activities.

“Schools in these areas are virtually empty because young men and women have abandoned education and opted for mining.

“Last week, I ordered a raid on all illegal mining camps across the state, and I urge you to make our people understand that we are not trying to deprive them of their livelihoods.

“But the devastating consequences of illegal mining are beyond imagination.

“So I appeal to all of you, particularly religious and community leaders, to take this message to everyone,” he admonished.

The governor, who promised to unite the people and initiate policies that would place the state on the path of steady growth, urged the people to support his administration to succeed.

(NAN)