…As Cross River Government Extends Olive Branch to Illegal Miners
Ukorebi Esien August 5, 2025
CALABAR – Prince Comrade Paul Okon Effiong, Chairman of the Cross River State Anti-Illegal Mining Committee and Taskforce, has declared that no amount of pressure or intimidation will deter him from executing his duties and standing for what is right.
Speaking shortly after his release from questioning by federal authorities over allegations made by a former federal Lawmaker, Rt. Hon. Daniel Asuquo, Effiong maintained that his conscience is clear and that the truth will always prevail.
"I cannot be intimidated for doing the right thing, I was falsely accused of receiving ₦10 million to obtain a mining license and of using my office to harass my brother. But there is no evidence to back these claims. I am clean, and I am proud of the work we are doing to sanitize the mining sector in Cross River State." he said.
The case, which involved the recovery of an excavator allegedly used for illegal mining, has stirred public interest, particularly due to the familial ties between the two parties. Effiong, however, affirmed that the actions of his taskforce were backed by official directives from the Federal Ministry of Mines.
He further pledged to resign and renounce his name if it is proven that the land in question legally belongs to Rt. Hon. Asuquo, or if any payment was truly made to him, an assertion he says underscores his integrity.
Meanwhile, the Cross River State Government has used the opportunity to call on illegal miners to lay down their tools and engage with government authorities in formalizing their operations.
"We are not enemies, our doors are open to dialogue, collaboration, and development. The goal is to stop insecurity and environmental degradation caused by illegal mining." Effiong said, acting on his official capacity as Chairman of the Cross River State Anti-Illegal Mining Committee and Taskforce
Prince Paul commended Governor Bassey Edet Otu for his swift intervention, which he said prevented a potential crisis. He also applauded his taskforce team for continuing their work even in his absence.
"My team is fearless because they know the government is behind them. We will not be intimidated. We will keep doing what is right for our people and our state," he concluded.
Youths from Calabar and Akamkpa have also thrown their weight behind Effiong, condemning what they described as attempts to silence a man who has stood for peace and justice, particularly in the fight against cultism and illegal activities in the state.
As the government continues its investigation into the matter, there are renewed calls for unity and reconciliation, especially between the two brothers, both from Akamkpa. Community leaders are urging peaceful resolution and collective focus on development
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