In a decisive move to curb the rising menace of illegal mining and its attendant threats to security and the environment, the Chairman of Akamkpa Local Government Council, Hon. (Ophot) Felix Akposi KSJI, has interfaced with the leadership and stakeholders of Mkpot Community today, the 9th of October, 2025 warning against the infiltration of illegal miners and urging all communities in Akamkpa to exercise greater vigilance and adhere strictly to extant mining regulations.
The meeting, which took place at the Executive Chamber of the Akamkpa Local Government Council, was convened at the instant of the Chairman following credible security reports of the influx of persons believed to be Fulani miners engaging in unauthorized mining activities in the Mkpot forest.
Hon. Akposi, while addressing the gathering, expressed strong displeasure over what he termed a “brazen act of negligence” by the community in failing to scrutinize the activities of those entering their land for mining operations.
“I received security reports of the influx of people believed to be Fulani carrying out illegal mining activities in your community, and it is my place to find out from you how this came to be, given the position of both the Federal and State Governments on illegal mining,” the Chairman stated.
He reminded the stakeholders that the Cross River State Government, in its wisdom, established the Anti-Illegal Mining Agency to monitor and regulate mining activities within the state. He emphasized that it is incumbent upon local communities to carry out due diligence and follow due process before allowing any individual or group access to their forests or mineral-bearing lands.
“Mining of precious stones has both advantages and disadvantages. You need to be guided so as to benefit from it within the ambit of the law. So, as it stands, I want to believe that what you are telling me today is the truth, that you have expelled all those who came and deceived you from your forest,” Akposi remarked.
“However, before then, I invited all security heads to brief you about the implications of illegal mining so you can get the information first hand. Henceforth, all mining activities in Mkpot and other communities in Akamkpa should stop immediately, except for those who have carried out the necessary due diligence and obtained government approval.”
In his briefing, the Divisional Police Officer (DPO) of Akamkpa Urban Police Division, Mr. Ini Johnson, explained that illegal mining constitutes a serious offense against both the Federal and State Governments. He warned that communities must remain vigilant, noting that the environmental consequences of illegal mining are often devastating and irreversible.
“Illegal mining is not just an economic crime; it is an environmental and security threat. Communities must ensure that due process and approvals are obtained before any mining activity begins,” the DPO stated.
Earlier, His Royal Highness Ntufam David E. Ayamba, the Clan Head of Mkpot, explained that the agreement initially entered with the visitors was for the harvesting of certain forest vegetables. However, when reports of strange activities and an influx of Fulani persons emerged, he convened a community investigation which revealed the illegal mining operations.
“I held a meeting with my people and we sent them away. At the moment, none of them is in the community or the forest,” the Clan Head affirmed.
His position was corroborated by other stakeholders, including the Youth Wing, Women Leader, and Hon. Thomas Anom, the Councilor representing Ikpai Ward, who is also a native of Mkpot. They all expressed appreciation to the Chairman for his timely intervention and requested guidance on lawful ways to manage their community’s natural resources.
The meeting ended on a high note of commendation to the Chairman for his proactive and take-charge approach in addressing the challenges and security threats affecting some communities in Akamkpa, aimed at giving them a renewed sense of direction and protection.
In his closing remarks, Hon. Akposi extended his warning to all communities in Akamkpa Local Government Area, urging them to be cautious and ensure compliance with government laws and procedures before granting access to miners or investors.
“Let this serve as a warning to every community in Akamkpa. No individual or group should be allowed to enter your land for mining or exploration without the requisite approvals. The government will not tolerate any activity that compromises our environment, endangers lives, or undermines lawful processes,” the Chairman cautioned.
With this directive, the Council reaffirmed its commitment to strengthening local surveillance, working closely with security agencies, and enforcing due process in line with state and federal government policies to safeguard Akamkpa’s natural resources for sustainable development.
In attendance at the meeting include; the Head of Local Government Administration, Dr. Obal Esang, Mr. Christian Attah – Secretary of Council, Mr. Sylvester Ntui – SA Peace and Security and a host of others.
