By Abasi Ita
The Governor of Cross River State, Bassey Edet Otu, has ordered a statewide crackdown on illegal mining activities, directing security agencies to enforce an immediate ban on unregulated operators across the state.
The directive followed a strategic meeting with key stakeholders in the mining sector as the state government intensified efforts to address growing environmental and security concerns linked to illegal mining in several communities.
Governor Otu said the ban takes immediate effect and applies to all individuals and groups involved in mining activities without proper authorization. He clarified that only operators with valid approvals from the Federal Government of Nigeria would be permitted to continue operations.
According to the governor, the mining sector holds significant economic potential for the state but has increasingly become a source of instability and concern in many host communities.
“This sector is strategic to the economic future of our state. But instead of bringing prosperity to our communities, it is gradually becoming a source of serious concern,” he said.
The governor disclosed that intelligence reports had indicated a growing influx of unregulated operators into mining communities, including foreign nationals whose identities and operational structures remain largely unknown.
He said the situation has raised serious security concerns, noting that the government must ensure that those operating within the state are properly identified and regulated.
Otu also lamented that some local actors had worsened the situation by facilitating illegal mining activities.
According to him, certain community leaders had aided the operations of illegal miners by allowing them to operate without proper regulatory oversight.
The governor explained that the state government had initially explored dialogue and collaboration with federal authorities and security agencies responsible for monitoring mining activities. However, he noted that the response had been slow while illegal activities continued to spread.
After months of observation and consultations, Otu said it had become necessary for the state government to take firm action to protect communities and safeguard natural resources.
He therefore directed that all illegal mining operations must cease immediately across Cross River State, warning that individuals operating without proper authorization would no longer be tolerated.
The governor also ordered the State Security Adviser to coordinate enforcement of the directive across mining communities in the state.
In addition, the Anti Illegal Mining Task Force has been mandated to begin continuous surveillance operations in affected areas to prevent any attempt to circumvent the ban.
Governor Otu further disclosed that the state government plans to embark on professional geological mapping of mineral rich areas as part of efforts to properly structure the mining sector and attract responsible investment.
He assured genuine investors that Cross River remains open to legitimate mining activities but stressed that such operations must now comply with transparent and regulated procedures.
Otu reiterated the government’s determination to restore order to the sector, noting that while mining can generate significant revenue, it must be conducted in a manner that protects communities and serves the broader interest of the state.