The Cross River State Forestry Commission (CRSFC) has expressed serious concern over the increasing cases of unauthorized sale, allocation, lease, and transfer of portions of forest reserves across the state by some communities, individuals, and groups.
In a statement, the Commission emphasized that such activities are in clear violation of government laws, which vest the ownership and control of all forest reserves exclusively in the Cross River State Government.
The Commission strongly condemned the unlawful practice, noting that it threatens the integrity of protected forest areas and undermines ongoing efforts to conserve biodiversity and ensure the sustainable management of the state’s forest resources.
As a result, all communities, traditional institutions, individuals, and groups involved in the illegal sale or transfer of forest reserve lands have been directed to desist from such activities with immediate effect.
The Commission also advised individuals, companies, and organizations that have purchased or are in the process of acquiring lands within forest reserves to take notice that such transactions are null and void and confer no legal rights whatsoever.
It further warned that failure to comply with the directive will attract strict enforcement measures, including the recovery of all illegally acquired lands and assets, as well as the investigation and prosecution of all persons and entities involved.
According to the Commission, the action underscores its commitment to protecting Cross River State’s rich forest heritage and preserving these critical ecosystems for the benefit of present and future generations.
To ensure full compliance, all Commissioners, Zonal Officers, Forest Officers, and Chief Rangers have been mandated to enforce the directive across the state.
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