C'River Govt. Declares War on Illegal Mining, Urges Citizens Protect Environment
The Cross River State Government has issued a call to action while urging residents to join the fight against illegal mining activities that are threatening the state's environment, economy and public safety in mining communities in Cross River State.
In a statement released on Friday by Comrade Joseph Ekemoti Agbor, Special Adviser to the Governor on Solid Minerals expressed deep concern over the rise of unregulated mining operations across the state.
According to the governor's aide, these illegal activities are causing severe environmental degradation, polluting rivers, destroying farmlands and jeopardizing the livelihoods of extractive communities across the state.
“Illegal mining is not just a crime against the state it’s a direct assault on our people, our economy, and our future. We must come together to protect our land from this exploitation.”
Comrade Agbor described how a thriving ecosystems and farmlands have been ravaged by unregulated mining operations that use harmful chemicals and unsafe practices that render communities vulnerable.
Accordingly, the Special Adviser noted that the consequences are both environmental and human as it ranges from the destruction of natural habitats to the loss of state revenue and increased risk to lives.
The release advocated for a shift towards legal, responsible and sustainable mining practices that will create environmental justice for long term benefits for the state and its people.
"Citizens are encouraged to be vigilant and report any suspicious or illegal mining operations to the authorities.This is a call to stewardship over sabotage".
He also emphasised that , "Cross River is not just rich in resources but it is rich in hope and possibility and we cannot allow short-term greed to destroy our long-term future.”
The SA solid minerals urged people in extractive communities to outrightly reject illegal mining as a way of protecting the land in order to preserve it for future use.
He however assured that the government under Senator Prince Bassey Otu remains committed to safeguarding the state’s natural heritage and calls on all stakeholders communities, traditional leaders, civil society and the private sector to work together in securing a sustainable future for Cross River State.
