Residents and environmental stakeholders in Cross River State have called on the state government to strictly enforce forestry laws and impose jail terms on offenders to curb illegal logging and forest destruction.
The demand was made during a stakeholders’ engagement on forest conservation organised by the Cross River National Park (Oban Division) in collaboration with the Wildlife Conservation Society of Nigeria, host communities, and civil society groups.
Speaking at the event, the State Conservator of Park, Joseph Assam Ntui, raised concerns over the rapid depletion of forest reserves, blaming weak enforcement and the activities of illegal loggers. He noted that such activities violate environmental laws and contribute to climate change, soil erosion, insecurity, and public health risks.
Ntui disclosed that 309 offenders have been arrested since November 2024, adding that a large number of those involved in illegal activities are outsiders, often enabled by local access.
Traditional leaders also warned of dire consequences if urgent action is not taken. The Paramount Ruler of Akamkpa Local Government Area, Agbor Ebani, said the state risks losing its biodiversity if enforcement remains weak.
“Our forests are dying. Laws exist, but offenders return because there are no consequences. We need jail terms, not just fines,” he said.
He urged communities, youths, and local leaders to stop aiding illegal entry into forest reserves, stressing the need for collective responsibility in protecting natural resources.
Meanwhile, Benjamin Enyam of the Cross River Forestry Commission said the government is strengthening collaboration with security agencies to crack down on illegal logging and ensure offenders are prosecuted.
Stakeholders warned that without decisive enforcement, Cross River could face irreversible environmental damage, threatening livelihoods and ecological sustainability in the region.
