By Paul Olayemi

A community-based group, the Concerned Sons and Daughters of Riverine Communities in Edo State, has called on authorities to investigate allegations of illegal logging activities in Okomu National Park.

The group has expressed concerns about potential collusion between park officials and individuals engaging in unlawful timber extraction.

In a statement signed by its National Coordinator, Hon. Ogidigba Godstime, and Hon. Ezekiel Daniel, the group urged Edo State Governor, His Excellency Monday Ikpebholo, and relevant security agencies, including the Nigeria Police Force, the Army, the Department of State Security (DSS), and the Ministry of Environment, to intervene promptly to safeguard the park’s ecosystem.

The group highlighted a recent incident involving the alleged illegal transportation of timber from the park despite government directives prohibiting such activities. On January 27, 2025, park rangers and ANI Foundation personnel reportedly intercepted two lorries loaded with timber. The logs were subsequently taken to the park’s headquarters in Udo, Ovia South-West Local Government Area.

According to the group, timber logs have been unlawfully transported to various destinations, including Benin City, Delta State, and Ondo State, without proper documentation or payment of statutory fees to the state revenue board or park authorities. They emphasized that no legal seizure or release documentation accompanied the logs.

The statement further alleged that a prominent individual in the riverine area had persistently defied government regulations and undermined the rule of law. The group appealed to the state governor to address the issue decisively, emphasizing that no state can function under dual leadership.

To ensure accountability, the group called on the Minister of Environment, the Permanent Secretary for Environment in Edo State, the Forestry Commission, and other relevant authorities, including security agencies, to conduct a thorough investigation. They stressed the need for appropriate legal action to deter future violations and protect the park’s resources.

The group’s call underscores the importance of safeguarding natural reserves and ensuring compliance with environmental regulations to preserve biodiversity and maintain law and order in protected areas.