In a strong call for enhanced security measures, stakeholders in Cross River State are urging the Nigeria Immigration Service (NIS), Department of State Services (DSS) and other agencies to competent security authorities to take immediate and proactive measures to manage the growing influx of migrants. illegal miners and immigrants from the Sahel region. This growing concern is particularly acute in Yakurr Local Government Area, where the presence of these individuals has sparked fears among residents.
Despite the deployment of two military trucks by the Nigerian army to the affected areas, reports indicate that the situation remains dire, with new arrivals of individuals believed to be from the Sahel region continuing to enter communities. These new arrivals are often seen operating under the guise of engaging in mining activities, raising alarms about potential security threats.
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Obol Okoi Obono-Obla, a lawyer and former presidential advisor, has been at the forefront of this issue. After observing a significant number of foreigners and illegal miners in the area, he called on the authorities to act urgently. In a recent interview with wowplus.net, Obono-Obla stressed the need for national security to take precedence over individual freedoms, especially in times of heightened insecurity and crisis.
“The question we must ask ourselves is: where is the Nigeria Immigration Service and the DSS in effectively managing and monitoring the movement of people in this region? “” he questioned. He further stressed that the involvement of these agencies is crucial in mitigating the security challenges posed by the influx of illegal miners and immigrants.
Obono-Obla acknowledged that although the Nigerian Constitution guarantees the right to freedom of movement, current circumstances demand a more vigilant approach from the government. “In times of crisis, authorities should be equipped to monitor and regulate the movements of people, especially those entering remote areas of the country without proper controls,” he said.
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Adding to the urgency of the situation, Ibor Benji, a young leader of the Mkpani community, expressed his deep concerns in a recent interview. “This situation is very alarming,” he said, highlighting a recent Agoi Ibami Central Youth meeting aimed at addressing the issue. Unfortunately, he noted, no concrete resolution was reached during their discussions.
Benji recounted a personal experience that highlighted the seriousness of the situation. “On Monday I went to the farm and spent the night there. When I returned in the evening, my cousin informed me that individuals from Agoi Ibami were facilitating the transportation of suspected foreign minors into the forest,” he revealed. This disturbing allegation suggests that some residents, including respected community leaders, may be colluding with these newcomers, allegedly motivated by financial incentives.
The youth leader stressed that the massive arrival of these individuals has created an atmosphere of fear and uncertainty within the community. “We cannot continue to sit idly by while our security is compromised,” he said. The community desperately needs a coordinated response from authorities to restore safety and order.
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Despite the seriousness of the situation, the lack of reaction from the army and local security officials is glaring. Neither the authorities of the 13th Brigade of the Nigerian Army nor the State Security Advisor have provided any news or solutions regarding the emerging crisis. This silence has only fueled the frustration of residents who feel abandoned during this difficult time.
As the situation evolves, the call to action becomes louder. Local leaders and concerned citizens are urging the NIS, DSS and other security agencies to intensify their efforts to monitor and control the influx of individuals from the Sahel region. The safety and security of Yakurr Local Government Area depends on swift and decisive action to meet these challenges head on.
In summary, the community is at a critical juncture and the response of security agencies will determine the future safety of residents. Now is the time to act, as the stakes continue to grow with each passing day.