The Attah of Agoi Ibami in Yakurr Local Government Area of Cross River State, Michael Onun, has expressed deep concern over the safety of his people following the unchecked influx of illegal miners into his community.
Speaking in an exclusive interview, the traditional ruler revealed that the discovery of gold and other precious minerals in Agoi Ekpo has led to an overwhelming presence of strangers, including minors, who have ventured into the area in search of these valuable resources.
He clarified that while he had granted consent letters to a select number of recognized and licensed miners—who ultimately did not make use of the approval—thousands of unauthorized individuals have nonetheless descended upon the community.
“For months now, unknown persons have been trooping into Agoi Ekpo without any authorization. They are in the forests engaging in mining activities,” he said. “One Sulaiman Isa appears to be at the forefront of these operations, yet I do not know him. He seems to wield significant influence.”
The monarch lamented that despite numerous reports to relevant authorities, including the federal and state offices of mines, the Nigeria Immigration Service, and other security agencies, no significant action has been taken to curb the illegal activities.
“There appears to be collusion involving powerful individuals and even some local collaborators,” he alleged. “We urgently need security forces to intervene and ensure these illegal miners do not undermine our community’s authority and resources.”
A chieftain from the neighboring Nko community, Fred Okoi Otosi, corroborated the traditional ruler’s concerns, stating that the number of illegal miners operating within the Agoi Ekpo forest has surpassed 10,000.
“This is a crisis that requires a coordinated effort, not just from security agencies but also from local youth groups and the government,” Otosi stated. “Each morning, thousands of these individuals can be seen along the Ikom-Calabar federal road, particularly from the slaughter area leading to the mining sites.”
Otosi disclosed that his investigations revealed that while a few individuals hold official licenses for mining, they have allegedly monetized these permits by allowing unregistered miners access to the sites in exchange for payment.
“There is hardly any hotel in Ugep, a major town in Yakurr LGA, where these miners are not lodging,” he added. “Despite the five-day ultimatum issued by the State Security Adviser, Gen. Obono Ubi, for them to vacate the forests, many remain hidden within the bush.”
He further noted that his earlier warnings about the rising influx of miners were dismissed as mere social media speculation.
Otosi has called for a decisive and sustained security operation to evacuate the illegal miners, cautioning that suspected saboteurs may be aiding and profiting from the illicit activities.
Community leaders and residents now await concrete action from the authorities to address what they describe as an escalating security and environmental crisis.
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