An environmental rights activist, Mr Odey Oyama has raised the alarm over what he calls a looming ecological crisis in the Olulumo Effi-Okuni community of Ikom Local Government, Cross River State.
Oyama, the executive director, Rainforest Resource and Development Center(RDDC), said in a statement made available to TNN on Monday, that there was an urgent for the state government to wade into the matter to stop its occurrence.
According to him, “the pristine rainforest, which has long served as a sanctuary for biodiversity and a source of livelihood for local communities, is currently under severe threat from unidentified Chinese nationals in collaboration with local accomplices.
“The exploitation of the Effi Pristine Rainforest by these entities is resulting in wanton destruction, indiscriminate deforestation, and irreversible damage to the delicate ecosystem. Immediate action is imperative to prevent further devastation.
“RRDC condemns the complicity of community elites and the silence surrounding this ecological plunder. We urge community leaders to break their silence and join efforts to protect our shared heritage. Efforts to uncover the truth behind these nefarious activities have been met with resistance and secrecy, highlighting the urgent need for government intervention.”
Oyama who has been in the forefront for the protection of the Cross River rainforest urged the federal and state governments to “to invoke the necessary measures to halt the destruction of Effi Pristine Rainforest and hold perpetrators accountable.
“RRDC urges the implementation of the Freedom of Information Act to unveil the agreement enabling these destructive operations, ensuring transparency and accountability.”
He said it was imperative that immediate action be taken to restore and preserve the Effi Pristine Rainforest for future generations, reaffirming our commitment to environmental conservation and sustainable development.
“The Rainforest Resource and Development Center (RRDC) remains steadfast in its mission to protect and preserve our natural heritage. We implore government authorities to act swiftly to avert this ecological crisis and safeguard the Effi Pristine Rainforest for the benefit of present and future generations,” he said.
