Nnimmo Bassey | File Image
HOMEF: It is ecologically harmful to allow mining in the very sensitive environment of the state
By Valentine Amanze
The Health Mother Earth Foundation (HOMEF) has joined other civil society groups in commending the Cross Rivers State government’s decision to halt illegal mining activities in the state.
The Executive Director of HOMEF, Dr Nnimmo Bassey, made the commendation in a statement issued by Kome Odhomor, the HOMEF Media/ Communication Lead, on Thursday July 11, 2024.
Bassey said that the action of the Cross River State would protect the people and environment, stressing, “It is ecologically harmful to allow mining in the very sensitive environment of the state.”
The HOMEF boss also lamented that the rate of unregulated mining activities in the otherwise protected forests of Cross River State had become worrisome and posed threats that have repercussions beyond the boundaries of the state and the nation.
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Bassey however appealed to the governor to prioritize and sustain the policy, as mining in community forests and other biodiversity hot spots is highly harmful and only enriches and profits the individuals and corporations involved in the nefarious activities.
He also called on governors of other states to emulate Senator Bassey Edet, the executive governor of Cross River State, in saving the fragile and already threatened ecosystems across Nigeria.
Besides, Shehu Akowe, HOMEF’s project lead on mining, decried the rampant uncontrolled mining in the nation and urged the government to build on the momentum by implementing an all-inclusive reform in the mining sector with the interest of communities as its centerpiece.”
He said that the reform should prioritize environmental and socioeconomic impact assessments for environmental sustainability.
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