Community elders in Mayo-Kam, Bali Local Government Area of Taraba State, have accused operatives of the Department of State Services (DSS) of allegedly collecting between ₦1.5 million and ₦2.5 million from miners to permit illegal mining activities despite the state government’s ban.
The allegations have raised fresh concerns about the enforcement of mining restrictions in the state, particularly following a deadly mining pit collapse at the Gidan Best mining site on September 17, 2026.
According to community accounts, the incident reportedly claimed at least 20 lives, with only four bodies recovered and 16 others still trapped underground.
Tanko Abubakar Mayokam, a community elder, alleged that security operatives stationed at the mining site determine who gains access based on the amount paid.
He claimed that individuals offering about ₦1 million were denied entry, while those willing to pay ₦2 million or more were allegedly permitted to continue mining.
Mayokam further alleged that the activities take place at night, beginning around 7pm and continuing until between 3am and 4am.
The community’s claims suggest that illegal mining may be continuing despite Governor Agbu Kefas’s reported ban, raising questions about the effectiveness of enforcement measures in the area.
Governor’s Aide Says Allegations Were Investigated
Idris Danladi, the Taraba State Governor’s Special Assistant on Marketing, said he obtained video clips relating to the alleged activities and forwarded the matter to Professor Josiah Sabo Kente, the governor’s Special Assistant on Political Matters.
Danladi claimed that individuals were subsequently sent to investigate and that their findings supported the allegations.
Community members also accused Hon. Anas Shuaibu Didango, who they alleged was involved in coordinating activities, logistics and security deployments at the mining site.
However, Didango denied knowledge of illegal mining operations and rejected allegations that he had received benefits from security personnel.
The claims against the DSS operatives have not been independently verified, and no conclusion can be drawn about their culpability based solely on the community’s allegations.
Community Demands Action
Community elders, political leaders and youths are calling on the state government to investigate the allegations, establish accountability and ensure that the bodies of miners still trapped beneath the collapsed pit are recovered.
They have also warned that protests could follow if the authorities fail to address their concerns.
The controversy comes amid renewed efforts by the Taraba State Government to curb illegal mining, protect mineral resources and improve safety in mining communities.
The outcome of any official investigation could prove critical in determining whether the state’s mining restrictions are being properly enforced and whether those responsible for preventing illegal operations are fulfilling their duties.
