Conservationist Calls For Federal Government Intervention As Chinese And Others Exploit Calabar Forests

Conservationist Calls For Federal Government Intervention As Chinese And Others Exploit Calabar Forests

Prince Odey Oyama, a conservationist in Cross River State, has urgently appealed to both the federal and state governments to intervene in the ongoing exploitation of the Cross River forests, particularly the Effi pristine forests. He alleges that undocumented Chinese individuals are involved in illegal wood logging activities……READ ALSO Nigerian Conservationist Wins £40,000 Award

Once boasting one of the largest forests in sub-Saharan Africa and recognized as one of the world’s 25 biodiversity hotspots, Cross River’s forests are now under threat due to rampant illegal logging.

Oyama emphasized the urgency of government intervention, stating that such extensive deforestation would not be tolerated in China. He expressed concern over the destruction of community resources and heritage and called on authorities to take decisive action.

The conservationist questioned why perpetrators of illegal wood logging have not been apprehended despite the existence of laws empowering law enforcement agencies to do so. He referenced Cross River State Forestry Commission Law No. 11, 2011, which authorizes the Nigerian Police to arrest illegal traders in timber forest produce and seize their assets.

Despite reports to police and immigration authorities, Oyama claimed that these offenses have been overlooked, with authorities allegedly turning a blind eye to the activities of the unidentified Chinese individuals operating in Okuni community, Ikom LGA.

The conservationist highlighted the lack of permits or concession agreements provided by the Chinese for logging immature trees, raising suspicions about the legality of their operations.

Efforts to obtain information from the Chinese individuals and community leaders proved unsuccessful, but officials from the Nigeria Immigration Service in Calabar acknowledged that they were addressing the issue of undocumented Chinese individuals.

The situation underscores the urgent need for government action to protect the valuable natural resources of Cross River State and preserve its biodiversity.

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