Oyo State Governor and Presidential candidate of the Allied Peoples Movement, Seyi Makinde, has called for the transfer of greater responsibility for mining to state governments, while retaining Federal Government oversight. He made this statement at the Makinde/Daura 2027 Presidential Town Hall meeting in Katsina. Makinde proposed that mining, currently on the Exclusive Legislative List of the Constitution, be devolved to states with federal oversight.
Makinde's call comes on the backdrop of the deaths of 37 suspected illegal miners in the custody of the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps in Niger State. The Federal Government has set up an independent committee to investigate the incident. Makinde emphasized that the current approach to addressing the issue is focused on the supply side, while the demand side, which legitimizes the operation, is being neglected.
According to Makinde, if states are given greater control over mining, they will perform better. He suggested that the issue of mining should be removed from the Exclusive Legislative List, allowing states to take charge with federal oversight. Makinde's proposed administration aims to review the level of government responsible for making decisions on issues affecting citizens.
Makinde also spoke on his 2027 campaign, which he described as issue-based. He cited the constitutional requirement for the President to transmit power to the Vice President when proceeding on vacation or unable to discharge the functions of office. As Oyo State governor, Makinde has complied with this requirement by transmitting power to his deputy when traveling out of the country for over 21 days.
The Presidential candidate also emphasized his commitment to following the Constitution to the letter. He promised to transmit power to the Vice President if he is unable to discharge his duties. Makinde urged Nigerians to obtain their Permanent Voter Cards and support his proposed "Reset Agenda", which aims to build a country that works for all citizens.
Speaking at the event, APM Vice Presidential Candidate, Lawal Daura, said the meeting was organized to demonstrate support for Makinde and highlight the desire for change ahead of the 2027 elections. Daura identified insecurity and poverty as major challenges facing the North-West. The party's proposed administration will provide details of its plans as the campaign progresses.
The APM National Chairman, Yusuf Dantalle, said the party would prioritize security and normalcy under a Makinde-led administration. He added that the proposed government would introduce measures to encourage citizens to make informed decisions and view political leaders as representatives of the people. The party's commitment to the 2027 election is genuine, honest, and focused on delivering the desired change.
Key points
- Oyo State Governor, Seyi Makinde, advocates for the devolution of mining responsibilities to state governments.
- Makinde proposes that mining be removed from the Exclusive Legislative List to allow states to take charge with federal oversight.
- The Presidential candidate emphasizes his commitment to following the Constitution and implementing his "Reset Agenda" if elected.
