Plateau govt seals Jos Wildlife Park entry points over illegal grazing, mining

The Plateau State Government has temporarily sealed pedestrian entry points into Jos Wildlife Park following repeated cases of illegal grazing and other unauthorised activities within the conservation area.

In a statement signed by Thomas Artu on behalf of the management of the Plateau State Tourism Corporation (PSTC), the government said the action was taken following several reports of herders sneaking cattle into the park for night grazing between 8 p.m. and 7 a.m., taking advantage of periods when personnel presence is limited.

The management of the PSTC said the herders allegedly gained access through water channels and by breaking padlocks on gates located along the park’s western boundary near the Industrial Training Fund (ITF) headquarters.

It added that security measures had been introduced to halt the activities and protect the facility, stressing that all pedestrian access points had been temporarily closed, while patrol operations within and around the park had been strengthened.

The PSTC disclosed that some arrests and prosecutions involving herders and illegal miners had already been secured, highlighting its commitment to enforcing the law and preserving the integrity of the park.

The corporation assured residents that Governor Caleb Mutfwang was undertaking urgent efforts to implement long-term measures aimed at strengthening security and ensuring sustained protection of the wildlife park.

It commended neighbouring communities, particularly Dong Kassa, for their vigilance and support in reporting suspicious activities.