The Kogi East Christian Elders Forum (KECEF) has frowned at the illegal exploration of mineral resources in some parts of the state, noting that they have no economic benefit for the inhabitants.

The forum, in a communique signed by its National President, Pastor Joseph Egwuda and the National Secretary, Elder Joel Usman Dagono, proclaimed the need to address the situation.

Members of the forum also condemned the cycle of violence and regular brutal killings of promising youths in the land while calling for youth empowerment and the provision of economic opportunities through agriculture.

They also appealed for the establishment of a cashew nuts management board to address wastages and increase income for the farmers and a solution to the erosion plaguing the area.

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Other resolutions adopted at the congress include the registration of the forum with the Corporate Affairs Commission (CAC), the appointment of a nine-member board of trustees as well as the national secretary.”

“While dissolving the Dekina Local Government Area excos of the forum and appointing an interim committee, the congress directed the national treasurer to coordinate activities of the forum in the local government areas”, Egwuda and Dagonoa added.

A seven-member committee was appointed by the congress to meet His Royal Majesty, Ata Igala, for clarification on an alleged plan to impose an emirate system on Lokoja by suspected expansionists.