Environmental activist arrested for ‘protesting Chinese exploitation of rainforest’ in Cross River

Odey Oyama, an environmental and climate activist, has been arrested for reportedly protesting the exploitation of Olulumo Effi rainforest in Cross River state.

Oyama and six others were apprehended on Tuesday in the Okuni area of Ikom LGA.

The arrests reportedly followed their “peaceful resistance” to deforestation activities by Chinese and local collaborators in the forest.

In a statement, Missang Oyama, a family member, described the activist’s detention as an act against his efforts to “defend the sanctity of our land against the greed of Chinese invaders and their despicable and mindless local collaborators”.

“Their only crime was standing up for the Olulumo forest, a treasure that should be preserved for generations yet unborn,” the statement reads.

“We call for the immediate and unconditional release of Prince Odey Oyama and all others unlawfully detained.”

The activist was arraigned in magistrate court on Thursday.

‘DESTRUCTION OF OLULUMO EFFI RAINFOREST’

Oyama, who is the executive director of the Rainforest Resource and Development Centre (RRDC), has been a vocal advocate against the destruction of the Olulumo Effi rainforest.

In April 2024, the activist raised alarms over alleged deforestation and illegal exploitation by unidentified Chinese nationals, purportedly working in collaboration with locals.

He described the rainforest as a sanctuary for biodiversity and a vital resource for local communities, now under threat from indiscriminate deforestation.

“The exploitation of the Effi Pristine Rainforest by these entities is resulting in wanton destruction, indiscriminate deforestation, and irreversible damage to the delicate ecosystem. Immediate action is imperative to prevent further devastation,” the activist wrote.

“RRDC condemns the complicity of community elites and the silence surrounding this ecological plunder. We urge community leaders to break their silence and join efforts to protect our shared heritage.

“Efforts to uncover the truth behind these nefarious activities have been met with resistance and secrecy, highlighting the urgent need for government intervention.

“We therefore call upon the local government, the Cross River state government, and the federal government of Nigeria to invoke the necessary measures to halt the destruction of Effi Pristine Rainforest and hold perpetrators accountable.

“It is imperative that immediate action is taken to restore and preserve the Effi Pristine Rainforest for future generations, reaffirming our commitment to environmental conservation and sustainable development.

“We implore government authorities to act swiftly to avert this ecological crisis and safeguard the Effi Pristine Rainforest for the benefit of present and future generations.”

Irene Ugbo, spokesperson for the Cross River police command, did not respond to calls or text messages on why Oyama was arrested and the charges against him.