The Governor of Taraba State, Agbu Kefas, has officially disbanded the Special Taskforce on Environmental Protection, shifting the responsibility for environmental enforcement to the state's 16 local government areas (LGAs). This decision was conveyed through a notice signed by Mrs. Jemimah Nwunuji, permanent secretary to secretary to the state government (SSG). The local council chairmen will now ensure compliance with environmental laws in their respective jurisdictions.

The task force, previously led by retired Brigadier J.A. Faransa, was instructed to conclude its operations and submit its findings and recommendations to the SSG’s office for further evaluation.

Governor Kefas reaffirmed the government’s commitment to combating illegal mining and other environmentally damaging activities. Despite the dissolution of the taskforce, the fight against environmental violations will continue, now under the supervision of local councils.

While some praised the disbandment, citing that the taskforce’s crackdown on activities like charcoal use had worsened the struggles of impoverished communities, the taskforce was originally established to address illicit environmental activities. However, its efforts sparked controversy, particularly after the destruction of mining equipment valued at billions of naira in the Akwana community of Wukari LGA.

In a related development, Governor Kefas appointed retired General Faransa as the head of the Taraba State Internal Revenue Board. The restructuring is intended to enhance environmental protection efforts at the local level, ensuring stronger supervision and enforcement across the state.