C’River Assembly demands immediate arrest, prosecution of illegal miners

By Ene Ene, Calabar

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

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

The House of Assembly made the resolution 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 Philip 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 one thousand (1000) have entered the Boki communities in pursuit of solid minerals.

According to the Boki Legislator, “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 a crisis as the influx of the Fulanis have 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 Lawmakers further noted that the present administration of Governor Bassey Otu is a responsive government with it’s “Peoples First” mantra expressed confidence that issues affecting the well-being of the citizens will received immediate attention.

In his remarks, the Speaker of the Assembly, 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, Ayambem however 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.

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