Cross River Assembly calls for crackdown on illegal miners

The Cross River State House of Assembly has called on the State Government, through its relevant agencies, to stop the activities of migrants engaged in illegal mining in Okwa 1 and 2 and Ukwango in Boki Local Government Area.

The lawmakers made the resolution on Thursday in Calabar, sequel to a matter of urgent Public Importance on the encroachment of Fulanis in Okwa 1 and 2 and Ukwango communities in Boki LGA, sponsored by the Member representing Boki 1 State Constituency, Bette Obi.

Leading debate on the matter, Obi who is the Chairman House Committee on Agriculture and Forestry, disclosed that a large influx of unidentified Fulanis, estimated to be over 1000, have entered the Boki communities in pursuit of solid minerals.

Boki legislator said, “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.”

The lawmaker also expressed concern about the well-being of his constituents,” 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,” he stated.

In separate contributions, members lamented that illegal mining has become endemic in the State describing the situation as ” unfortunate”.

The lawmakers also observed that illegal mining is usually accompanied by criminality while calling on security agencies to stop the menace as soon as possible.

The assembly further resolved that security agencies be deployed to the affected communities to arrest and prosecute the miners while advocacy groups should be engaged to educate community leaders on the ills of allowing illegal mining in their communities.

In his remarks, the Speaker of the House, Elvert Ayambem, commended members for their overwhelming support for the motion and commitment towards improving the lives of the citizens through effective legislation.

Ayambem noted that illegal mining contributes greatly to environmental degradation and promised that the Assembly will ensure that the people of Boki do not suffer any negative consequences.

The Speaker advised the traditional rulers and the youths of the affected area to maintain peace so that the situation does not culminate in violence and loss of lives.

The lawmakers further noted that the present administration of Governor Bassey Otu is a responsive government with its “Peoples First” mantra expressed confidence that issues affecting the well-being of the citizens will receive immediate attention