Governor Agbu Kefas on Sunday in Jalingo signed three executive orders aimed at tackling political thuggery, illegal mining and drug abuse in Taraba.

In a statement by the commissioner for information and re-orientation, Zainab Jalingo, the governor noted the alarming rise in substance abuse and its correlation with criminality, violence and social disintegration in the society.

“Drug abuse remains one of the greatest threats to the future of our young people. It fuels insecurity, destroys families, undermines productivity, and exposes communities to various forms of crime.

“The executive order provides stronger legal backing for relevant authorities to prevent, monitor, and prosecute activities related to drug abuse while supporting efforts geared towards public enlightenment, rehabilitation, and youth development,” Mr Kefas said.

On the executive order prohibiting political thuggery, the governor said the decision was informed by the approaching political campaigns and the need to preserve the peace currently being enjoyed across the state.

He noted the efforts made by his administration to restore peace and security, stressing that his government would not allow anyone to disrupt public order or undermine the stability of the state.

“The executive order prohibits the recruitment, sponsorship, financing, harbouring, or use of political thugs by any individual, group, or political interest.

“It is intended to discourage violence, intimidation, destruction of property, and other unlawful acts often associated with electoral contests,“ Mr Kefas explained.

The Taraba governor observed with great concern the increasing activities of illegal miners, loggers, and other unauthorised operators whose actions have resulted in environmental degradation, destruction of farmland and water sources, and a threat to the safety and livelihood in the state.

“This executive order strengthens measures against illegal exploitation of natural resources, promotes environmental sustainability, and protects the rights and welfare of communities hosting legitimate resource development activities.

“The government calls on all citizens, traditional institutions, religious leaders, youth groups, political stakeholders, civil society organisations, to support the implementation of these Executive Orders in the collective interest of peace, security, and progress,” Mr Kefas stated.

(NAN)