The Cross River State House of Assembly has urged the State Government to halt the illegal mining activities by migrants in Okwa 1 and 2, and Ukwango in Boki Local Government Area.
According to The PUNCH, ths call came on Thursday in Calabar following a matter of urgent Public Importance concerning the encroachment of Fulanis in the aforementioned communities.
The motion was brought forward by Bette Obi, the Member representing Boki 1 State Constituency.
Obi, who is also the Chairman of the House Committee on Agriculture and Forestry, highlighted the influx of over 1000 unidentified Fulanis into the Boki communities in search of solid minerals.
He stated, “These Fulanis have been carrying out illicit gold mining within the Government Reserved Area hence robbing Boki LGA as well as the State of its natural resources and revenue.”
Expressing concern for his constituents, Obi added, “The communities are now facing crisis as the influx of the Fulanis has exceeded the number of indigenes. These communities now live in fear for their lives and property.”
Other lawmakers voiced their dismay at the prevalence of illegal mining in the State, labeling the situation as “unfortunate.”
They noted that such activities often come hand-in-hand with criminal behavior and called for immediate action from security agencies to address the issue.
The assembly resolved that security personnel should be sent to the affected areas to apprehend and prosecute the miners.
Additionally, they recommended that advocacy groups be engaged to educate community leaders on the detrimental effects of allowing illegal mining.
Speaker of the House, Elvert Ayambem, praised the members for their unanimous support of the motion and their dedication to enhancing citizens’ lives through effective legislation.
Ayambem pointed out that illegal mining significantly contributes to environmental degradation and assured that the Assembly would ensure the people of Boki are protected from adverse impacts.
He also advised the traditional rulers and youths in the affected areas to maintain peace to prevent the situation from escalating into violence.
The lawmakers expressed confidence in the current administration under Governor Bassey Otu, which follows a “Peoples First” approach, to address the citizens’ concerns promptly.
