In an effort to address environmental concerns and ensure safety standards, Governor Bassey Otu of Cross River State has issued a directive halting all mining operations throughout the State.
The decision which was reached in collaboration with the Federal Ministry of Solid Mineral Development, is in response to growing apprehensions regarding unsustainable practices among artisanal and industrial miners.
A statement issued by the Secretary to the State Government, Anthony Owan-Enoh, stated that miners were required to immediately cease all activities at their respective sites and quarries, pending comprehensive inspections conducted jointly by state and federal officials of the Ministry of Solid Mineral Development.
It further stated that inspections will meticulously assess adherence to stringent Health, Safety, and Environmental standards, and that only those mining facilities certified as compliant by the inspection team will be permitted to resume operations.
Also, the state governor has announced the immediate suspension of all wood logging activities throughout the state, to address the ongoing non-compliance with the state’s regulations regarding trees felling.
Despite the government’s previous attempts to work cooperatively with timber loggers, ongoing neglect and refusal to follow the established guidelines have necessitated stricter action.
Security agencies have been instructed to enforce the ban rigorously, with orders to arrest violators and seize any logs and machinery involved in illegal logging activities.
Editor : Ena Agbanoma
