Forestry Commission says all transactions within forest reserves are void as state tightens enforcement to protect biodiversity

The Cross River State Government has declared all unauthorised sale, allocation, lease or transfer of lands within the state’s forest reserves as illegal and void, warning that ownership and control of these lands remain exclusively with the state. The announcement was made in Calabar on Tuesday by Rt. Hon. George O’Ben-Etchi, Chairman and Chief Executive Officer of the Cross River State Forestry Commission, amid growing concern over rising cases of illegal land transactions in protected areas.

O’Ben-Etchi stated that several communities, individuals and groups have recently engaged in unlawful dealings involving portions of the forest reserves spread across Cross River State (South-South), a practice which he described as dangerous to ongoing conservation efforts. He emphasised that under current laws, only government is empowered to manage and allocate forest reserve lands, making any private transfer or sale unlawful.

This move comes at a time when Nigeria’s forest resources face increasing pressure from illegal logging, encroachment and unregulated development. Cross River is home to some of the country’s largest remaining tropical forests, which play a crucial role in biodiversity conservation and climate regulation. The government’s stance is intended to safeguard these assets for future generations and support sustainable management goals.

“The government strongly condemns this unlawful practice, as 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,” O’Ben-Etchi said during a press briefing. He directed all communities, traditional institutions, individuals and groups engaged in such activities to desist immediately or risk facing legal consequences under existing forestry laws.

As at press time, no formal opposition response had been issued regarding the ban. The Forestry Commission is expected to increase monitoring across affected areas and collaborate with security agencies to enforce compliance. Stakeholders have been advised to seek clarification from relevant authorities before engaging in any transaction involving lands situated within designated forest reserves.

Source: https://guardian.ng/business-services/agro-care/cross-river-govt-declares-sales-of-forest-reserve-lands-illegal/