Otu signs executive order to protect communities

A joint Task Force comprising representatives from the Federal Ministry of Solid Minerals Development and the Cross River State Government has uncovered illicit mining sites in the state.

The team, spearheaded by the Federal Mines Officer overseeing the state, the Commissioner for Minerals Resources, and Security personnel, yesterday, unearthed the illegal activities by certain miners, while conducting a comprehensive monitoring operation across various mining sites.

The illegal miners were caught exploiting and degrading mineral reserves in several communities. According to the Commissioner for Mineral Resources, Efiom Ekaha, the joint task force swung into action upon receiving intelligence reports.

Ekaha said the governor had earlier instructed a crackdown on illegal mining within the state. He disclosed that recent enforcement action has led to the arrest of suspects engaged in unauthorised mining activities, while equipment at illegal sites was confiscated.

MEANWHILE, the Cross River State Government has signed into law, Executive Order NO 1 of 2024 for the protection of mining communities across the 18 local councils of the state against insecurity, exploitation and collection of surface rent from mining entities operating in any part of the state.

While signing the Executive Order into operations with effect from August 14 in Calabar, Governor Bassey Otu noted that the order has become imperative in recognition of the need to protect all communities in the state.