By Kelvin Obambon
In a major win for environmental justice and community rights, the New Ekuri Community has reached a peaceful resolution with Ezemac International (Nig.) Ltd. over disputed logging in their community forest.
The agreement, announced Tuesday March 3, 2026 in a press statement by Dr Martin Egot, a community leader, involves stoppage of further deforestation, substantial financial compensation, and the formal recognition of the community’s custodianship of their ancestral lands.
The dispute erupted weeks ago when Ezemac International began logging activities without community consent, leading to the arrest and criminalization of Dr. Egot. Alarmed by the environmental damage and security risks, New Ekuri, supported by civil society groups, petitioned the Cross River State House of Assembly for intervention.
READ ALSO: FRSC Exists to Save Lives, Not Just Enforce Laws — Corps Marshal
“Thanks to the timely mediation of the House Committee on Agriculture, Natural Resources and Forestry, led by Hon. Bette Obi, and Hon. Okon Owuna, representing Akamkpa I State Constituency, we have achieved a peaceful resolution,” Dr. Egot stated.
He explained that a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) was signed on February 16, 2026, addressing compensation, logging cessation, and restoration. “No company may lawfully operate within our forest without the express consent of the community,” Dr. Egot emphasized.
“The company must pay a total of ₦15 million before evacuating any cut wood: ₦8 million for logs already harvested. ₦2 million to refund legal and dispute expenses.₦5 million for environmental restoration. No payment, no evacuation. No payment, no machinery operation,” Dr. Egot declared.
He said that ₦5 million will fund planting 10,000 tree seedlings, nursery development by community Ecoguards, and road rehabilitation to curb erosion, while Panacea for Developmental and Infrastructural Challenges for Africa Initiative (PADIC-Africa) will provide technical oversight. “This transforms conflict into an opportunity for ecological regeneration,” Dr. Egot noted.
He commended the Cross River State House of Assembly for “impartial and effective mediation,” civil society for amplifying their voice, the media for balanced coverage, and local youths for their discipline.
“This outcome demonstrates that communities can defend their forests through lawful and peaceful means,” he added. “Environmental justice is achievable through dialogue. New Ekuri remains committed to protecting our rainforest—our heritage, our climate shield, and the legacy for future generations.”
