The Cross River Forestry Commission (CRSFC) has expressed strong disapproval over the unlawful sale and allocation of land within forest reserves across the state.
The Commission’s Chairman, George O’Ben-Etchi, stated this in Calabar on Wednesday, noting that some individuals and groups have been engaging in the illegal leasing, selling, and distribution of portions of land located within protected forest areas.
He emphasised that, under existing laws, all forest reserves remain the exclusive property of the Cross River State Government.
O’Ben-Etchi warned that encroachment on forest reserves poses a serious threat to biodiversity conservation and undermines ongoing efforts to ensure sustainable forest management.
He urged traditional rulers, community leaders, and other stakeholders in areas surrounding forest reserves to desist from any form of land transactions within protected zones.
The chairman also cautioned those purchasing such lands to stop immediately, stressing that such dealings are illegal and confer no ownership rights regardless of any agreements reached.
He further warned that the commission would not hesitate to recover all illegally acquired portions of forest land and ensure enforcement of relevant laws.
O’Ben-Etchi reaffirmed the commission’s commitment to protecting and preserving the state’s forest resources for future generations.