Abia govt warns against sales of forest reserves

Government has warned individuals and groups against selling of Government forest reserves in the State.

The State Government, through the Ministry of Environment, urged host communities of State forest reserves to support Government efforts in protecting these vital natural resources against illegal activities.

Addressing journalists, following the arrest of individuals allegedly involved in illegal tree felling at the Ukpom Bende Forest Reserve, Philimon Ogbonna, State’s Commissioner for Environment, warned against such illegal activities.

Citing the illegal clearing of some parts of the Nkalunta Forest Reserve in Iyalu/Iberenta, Ikwuano Local Government Area and illegal cocoa plantation activities within the Ubibia Forest Reserves in Bende Local Government Area, Ogbonna expressed worry over the increasing cases of encroachment, deforestation, and illegal land transactions within Forest Reserves.

He disclosed that the government received credible intelligence about plans by some individuals to illegally sell some portions of Ajata Ibeku Forest Reserves and portions of the Forest Reserve in Arochukwu Local Government Area, stressing that such unlawful activities pose significant environmental and economic threats to the state, and would not be tolerated.

The Commissioner warned all individuals engaged in illegal logging, encroachment, or land sales in Forest Reserves to cease immediately or face strict legal consequences.

He reiterated the state government’s unwavering commitment to preserving forest reserves for environmental sustainability, biodiversity conservation, and the benefit of present and future generations.

He also urged traditional rulers, community leaders, youths, and all stakeholders to remain vigilant and promptly report any suspicious activities within Forest Reserves to the appropriate authorities.