Bogoro Local Government Chairman, Surveyor Lawi Yakubu Sumi, has decried the involvement of children in mining activities, calling it sabotage against ongoing efforts to protect child rights in Bauchi State.
Sumi stated this while receiving members of the Bauchi State House of Assembly Committee on Local Government and Chieftaincy Affairs during their oversight visit to Bogoro.
According to him, the council has confirmed reports of minors being engaged in mining activities. He therefore issued a stern warning to those responsible, stressing that no circumstance should warrant depriving children of their right to quality education and meaningful development.
Responding, the Chairman of the House Committee, Hon. Bala Abdullahi Dan, commended the council for identifying such a critical issue. He emphasized that the Assembly will ensure appropriate measures are taken against any activity that undermines good governance, provided that the rights of citizens and the Constitution are respected.
Hon. Dan further advised mining companies operating in the area to ensure they obtain valid documentation, employ only lawful workers, and strictly adhere to the council’s directives.
Bogoro LGA has recently been identified as a potential hub for mining revenue in Bauchi State. The State Assembly is currently working on modalities to regulate mining operations across the state to maximize revenue and improve the welfare of citizens.
