The call was made during a stakeholders’ engagement on forest conservation, where concerns were raised over the continuous destruction of forest reserves across the state.
Participants at the meeting blamed weak enforcement of existing laws for the rising cases of illegal activities in protected forest areas.
“Forests Are Dying” — Stakeholders Raise Alarm
Officials and community leaders warned that the state’s forests are under serious threat due to unchecked logging, mining, and other illegal activities.
The Conservator of Parks noted that these activities not only violate existing laws but also contribute to environmental problems such as climate change, soil erosion, and insecurity.
He revealed that hundreds of offenders have already been arrested in recent months, but stressed that arrests alone are not enough without proper prosecution.
Call for Stronger Punishment
Traditional leaders and stakeholders emphasized that fines are no longer effective in stopping offenders.
A royal father lamented that many suspects are arrested but quickly return to illegal activities because there are no serious consequences.
“We need jail terms, not just fines,” he insisted, urging the government to fully apply the law to serve as a deterrent.
Illegal Logging Linked to Community Complicity
Stakeholders also pointed out that some illegal activities persist because of cooperation from local communities.
According to officials, many offenders gain access to forest areas through community support or weak local control, making enforcement more difficult.
Traditional rulers and community leaders were therefore urged not to compromise or accept incentives that allow illegal operators into protected areas.
Government Promises Crackdown
Authorities say efforts are underway to strengthen enforcement through collaboration with security agencies.
The Cross River Forestry Commission disclosed plans to intensify operations aimed at arresting and prosecuting offenders, with the goal of protecting the state’s remaining forest resources.
A Growing Environmental Crisis
Cross River is home to one of Nigeria’s most important rainforest ecosystems, but increasing deforestation is threatening biodiversity and long-term environmental sustainability.
Stakeholders warn that without urgent action, the state risks losing not just its forests, but also the economic and environmental benefits tied to them.
Post A Comment: