Fulani Invasion, Illegal Mining Scare in Akamkpa: Chairman Raises The Alarm
By Bassey BASSEY
The Chairman of Akamkpa Local Government Council in Cross River State, Hon. Felix Akposi, has raised alarm over the invasion of Mkpot Community by suspected Fulani illegal miners.
Describing the development as “disturbing and unacceptable,” Akposi warned that such unauthorized mining activities pose grave threats to local security, the environment, and the economic integrity of the state.
Speaking during a stakeholders’ meeting with Mkpot community leaders, the council boss condemned what he termed a “brazen act of negligence” by locals for allowing unknown individuals access to their mineral-rich lands without due verification.
“I received credible security reports about an influx of persons believed to be Fulani miners operating illegally in your community,” Akposi said. “It is my duty to find out how this was allowed, considering the clear position of both the Federal and State Governments against illegal mining.”
He reminded the gathering that the state government had established the Cross River State Anti-Illegal Mining Agency to monitor and regulate mining activities. Akposi therefore urged communities to conduct proper background checks and obtain official approvals before granting access to any forest or mining site.
The council chairman assured that security agencies have been placed on alert to investigate the situation and bring the culprits to justice.
The Divisional Police Officer (DPO) of Akamkpa Urban Division, Mr. Ini Johnson, also described illegal mining as a serious economic, environmental, and security crime.
“Illegal mining robs government of revenue, destroys the ecosystem, and endangers lives,” the DPO stated, urging community members to remain vigilant and promptly report any suspicious activities.
Responding to the concerns, His Royal Highness Ntufam David E. Ayamba, Clan Head of Mkpot, admitted that the visitors were initially allowed into the area to harvest forest vegetables. However, he revealed that subsequent investigations uncovered that the group had secretly begun illegal mining operations.
