Ukorebi Esien | 26th June 2023
In a resolute move to protect its natural resources, the Cross River State government has intensified its efforts to combat deforestation and other detrimental environmental activities within the region.
During an official visit to the border community with Ebonyi State, Governor Sen. Prince Bassey Otu, through his Chief of Staff, Hon. Emmanuel Ironbar, emphasized the administration's unwavering dedication to addressing illegal logging in the state. The visit served as an opportunity to inspect 32 trucks found to be carrying illicit timber.
Expressing deep concern over the severe ecological damage caused by criminal logging in Cross River, the governor warned that strict penalties awaited those involved in such activities. The impoundment of the 32 trucks served as a powerful demonstration of the government's determination to turn words into action.
Commending the Anti-deforestation Committee for their swift response, Governor Otu called upon forest-bearing communities to support the government's cause by providing crucial information to the designated agencies. He also urged them to refrain from assisting illegal loggers, wildlife poachers, and smugglers.
As part of the government's proactive approach, the governor issued a directive to all owners of seized trucks carrying illegal sawn timber/logs. They were instructed to report to the Office of the Permanent Secretary, Cross River State Forestry Commission, within a seven-day period to arrange for the necessary resolution of their cases. Failure to comply with this directive would result in the permanent confiscation and subsequent auctioning of the impounded trucks and timber.
By enforcing these stringent measures, Cross River State is taking a firm stance against deforestation and asserting its commitment to preserving its invaluable natural heritage.