A former presidential aide, Okoi Obono-Obla, has alleged that foreign businessmen engaged in illegal mining are behind the growing wave of communal crises and violence in parts of Cross River State.
Obono-Obla, who once chaired the Special Presidential Panel on Recovery of Public Property, claimed that over the past five years, foreign actors often operating alongside armed militias—have infiltrated several local government areas, exploiting mineral resources on a large scale.
According to him, their activities have triggered repeated clashes with security agencies and host communities, resulting in loss of lives, widespread insecurity, and destruction of forests and farmlands.
Despite the state government’s ban on illegal mining, he noted that the exploitation of rare minerals has continued unabated.
In a statement, Obono-Obla described the foreign operators as “ruthless,” accusing them of fueling inter-communal conflicts in collaboration with some traditional rulers and influential individuals.
He specifically alleged that certain traditional rulers in Yakurr, Obubra, Akamkpa, Biase, and Obanliku local government areas regions rich in precious stones are complicit in facilitating illegal mining activities.
“Traditional rulers and individuals from these communities are acting as conduits for foreign interests driving this illicit business,” he said, warning that the situation is escalating land disputes and violence across affected areas.
As a solution, Obono-Obla proposed the establishment of state-backed mining companies, with host communities holding equity stakes. He argued that such firms could obtain licences under the Minerals and Mining Act, 2007, thereby legalising operations and curbing illegal activities.
He added that the approach would align with the Land Use Act of 1978, ensuring that mineral resources are managed in a way that benefits local communities while promoting peace and stability.
“Empowering communities through legal mining structures will not only curb illegal operations but also promote sustainable development and strengthen local ownership,” he said.
Meanwhile, the Cross River State Government has reiterated its concern over persistent illegal mining and the non-compliance with Executive Order No. 1 of 2024.
In a statement signed by Linus Obogo, media aide to Governor Bassey Otu, the government warned that continued violations by individuals and companies involved in mining and quarrying would no longer be tolerated.
The order, according to the government, was introduced to protect host communities, enforce environmentally responsible mining practices, and ensure the state benefits from surface rents for development.
Authorities have now directed all operators in the mining sector across the state to present themselves for immediate profiling, signaling a potential crackdown on illegal activities.
The renewed warnings underscore growing concerns that unchecked mineral exploitation could further deepen insecurity in the resource-rich state if urgent measures are not enforced.