The Akamkpa Local Government Council of Cross River State has raised alarm over a growing wave of illegal mining activities allegedly being carried out by suspected Fulani miners in Mkpot community.
Council Chairman, Hon. Felix Akposi, described the situation as disturbing and warned that such unauthorized operations pose serious threats to local security, the environment, and the state’s economic integrity.
Speaking during a stakeholders’ meeting with Mkpot community leaders, Hon. Akposi condemned what he called a “brazen act of negligence” by the community in allowing unknown individuals access to their mineral-rich lands without proper verification.
“I received credible security reports about an influx of people believed to be Fulani miners operating illegally in your community. It is my responsibility to find out how this was allowed, given the clear stance of both the Federal and State Governments against illegal mining,” he said.
The chairman reminded the gathering that the Cross River State Government established the Anti-Illegal Mining Agency to monitor and regulate all mining activities within the state. He urged local communities to conduct thorough background checks and secure official approvals before granting access to any forest or mining site.
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In his remarks, the Divisional Police Officer (DPO) of Akamkpa Urban Police Division, Mr. Ini Johnson, described illegal mining as a serious crime against the state and the nation. He warned that the practice not only robs the government of revenue but also leaves long-term environmental damage that is often irreversible.
“Illegal mining is not just an economic crime; it is an environmental and security threat,” the DPO stated, urging all communities to remain vigilant and report suspicious activities immediately.
Responding to the council’s concerns, His Royal Highness Ntufam David E. Ayamba, Clan Head of Mkpot, explained that the visitors were initially granted permission to harvest forest vegetables. However, he said subsequent investigations by the community revealed that the group had secretly begun illegal mining operations.
The chairman vowed that the council would work with security agencies and the state government to halt the unlawful activities and prevent future breaches.
The resurgence of illegal mining in Akamkpa has sparked fears of renewed environmental degradation and community unrest, with residents calling for stronger enforcement of mining laws across Cross River State.
