Armed Illegal Miners Invade Cross River Community, Sparking Tension and Outrage

Tension has erupted in Mkpot, a quiet community in Etung Local Government Area of Cross River State, after armed illegal miners reportedly stormed the area to carry out unlawful gold extraction.

The Chairman of the Cross River State Anti-Illegal Mining Taskforce, Prince Paul Effiong Okon, confirmed the infiltration, noting that the task force is aware of the situation but has yet to make any arrests.

Residents say the miners, believed to have come from outside the state, arrived recently and began operating without authorization, raising fears over potential violence and environmental damage.

Leaders Decry Government Neglect

Prominent community leader and legal practitioner, Chief Okoi Obono-Obla, expressed deep concern over what he described as a failure of local governance. He criticized the chairman of Etung LGA for not taking proactive measures to prevent the illegal activity.

“The situation in Mkpot could have been prevented if local government officials were more present and responsive,” Obono-Obla said in a statement on Tuesday. “Unchecked exploitation of mineral resources not only endangers host communities but also undermines Cross River’s economic interests.”

He called on the Ministry of Solid Minerals, the Cross River State Government, and security agencies to urgently intervene and halt the illegal mining operations before they escalate further.

Illegal Mining Spreads Across Cross River

Illegal mining activities have been a growing concern across Cross River, with earlier reports emerging from Akamkpa, Yakurr, and Biase Local Government Areas. The recent invasion of Etung suggests the menace is spreading rapidly, threatening both the environment and the livelihoods of local residents.

Analysts warn that without decisive government intervention, Cross River could face severe ecological degradation and community unrest similar to what has been witnessed in other mining zones across Nigeria.