NGOs raise alarm over mining activities in Cross River national park

We the People and Devcon, two non-governmental organisations (NGOs), have raised the alarm over the incursion of miners at the national park in Cross River state.

NAN reports that this was contained in a statement issued by Ken Henshaw and Martin Egot, representatives of the NGOs in Calabar, the state capital.

They said the incursions were being carried out by two mining companies, adding that their activities in the the park contravened the Nigerian Minerals and Mining Act of 2007.

The NGOs said allowing mining activities in the national park will have adverse impact on the ecosystem, destroy conservation, as well as expose the forest to risks such as wildlife hunting and logging.

They faulted the federal ministry of mines and steel development for granting the companies mining rights, and called for the revocation of their licences.

“Accordingly, we demand the immediate revocation of the mining lease granted the two companies,” the statement reads. 

“The step is essential to halt any ongoing mining activities and prevent further ecological degradation.

“We also want immediate vacation of the sites. In addition, security agencies should be mobilised to vacate the mining operatives from the mining sites.

“The Nigerian Minerals and Mining Regulations should be reviewed and strengthened to ensure that there were no ambiguities in granting licences within protected areas.

“Local communities surrounding Cross River National Park, including Oban Forest, should be actively engaged in the conservation efforts.

“Their input and cooperation are vital for the effective protection of the park and its sustainable management.”

The NGOs appealed to the government to grant the ministry the authority to enforce legal measures, adding that this will prevent potential conflicts and ensure the protection of the park.