By Abasi Ita
In a landmark move for environmental protection in Cross River, New Ekuri Community in Akamkpa Local Government Area has successfully resolved its protracted dispute with Ezemac International (Nig.) Ltd. over unauthorized logging in the community forest. The resolution follows months of advocacy, civil society engagement, and mediation, culminating in the intervention of the Cross River State House of Assembly.
The conflict escalated earlier with the arrest of community leader Dr. Martins Egot and centered on the company’s illegal felling of trees, which raised serious concerns about environmental degradation, community security, and social risks. “We were deeply concerned that the continued logging would threaten our forest, our way of life, and the future of our children,” Dr. Egot said. With support from civil society groups, New Ekuri petitioned the House of Assembly and relevant authorities for intervention.
The breakthrough came through mediation led by the House Committee on Agriculture, Natural Resources, and Forestry, chaired by Hon. Bette Obi, alongside Ntufam Hon. Okon Owuna, representing Akamkpa I State Constituency. On 16 February 2026, a Memorandum of Understanding was signed, outlining terms for compensation, environmental restoration, and forest governance. Hon. Obi remarked, “This agreement demonstrates the power of dialogue, collaboration, and adherence to the rule of law in resolving community disputes.”
Under the settlement, New Ekuri Community is formally recognized as the lawful custodian of the forest. No company may operate within its boundaries without explicit community consent. Ezemac International committed ₦15,000,000, including ₦8,000,000 for previously felled logs, ₦2,000,000 for legal and dispute-related costs, and ₦5,000,000 earmarked for environmental restoration. Payments must be completed before the removal of existing timber. Ntufam Owuna emphasized, “This ensures accountability and that the community benefits from its natural resources.”
The MOU mandates an immediate halt to further logging. The company may remove only timber already felled and must fully withdraw afterward. Any future operations will require fresh agreements approved by the community.
Environmental restoration is a central focus of the settlement. Plans include raising and planting 10,000 tree seedlings under the supervision of Panacea for Developmental and Infrastructural Challenges for Africa Initiative (PADIC-Africa). The project also involves rehabilitating forest access roads to prevent erosion and illegal entry. A PADIC-Africa representative said, “We are committed to restoring the ecological balance and ensuring the forest thrives for generations to come.”
Dr. Martins Egot hailed the resolution, saying, “This outcome shows that environmental justice is achievable through lawful and peaceful means. It is a win not just for New Ekuri, but for all communities striving to protect their environment.”
The settlement is being hailed as a milestone in environmental governance in Nigeria, proving that sustainable forest protection and community rights can coexist. Hon. Obi added, “This sets a precedent for other host communities nationwide, showing that dialogue and structured engagement can deliver lasting solutions.”