Intl Day for Forest: Conservationists warn of consequences of continued depletion of forests

Forest experts and conservationists have warned against continued deforestation in Cross River State.

The experts claim the future of humankind is seriously threatened as a result of the fast disappearance of forests.

According to them, man and other creatures may henceforth be witnessing unpleasant health issues following the negative human activities which have rather attacked the environment.

The experts, including Mr Ken Henshaw of We The People, Peter Lawrence of Policy Alert, Ukorebi Essien of Parters4Peace as well as Professor of Ethnobotany & Phytopathology, Samuel E. Udoh of University of Cross River State, UNICROSS, spoke to mark this year’s International Day for Forest in Calabar on the theme Forests and Innovation, in Calabar.

They made the assertions at an event to replant the depleted mangroves in many Cross River creeks held at Idundu community in Akpabuyo LGA of the state.

Prof Samuel Udoh of UNICROSS, stressed the need for reforestation of the creeks to sustain marine lives which by extension, sustains humans.

Represented by Ukeme Ekong, Ken Henshaw said they need the cooperation of the community for the restoration of the mangrove project.

Ukorebi and Lawrence Peter said man is no longer at peace as he has tampered with nature, which has resulted in excessive heat in the environment.

Lawrence said a recent study showed that some endangered animal species native to Cross River forests have migrated to neighbouring Cameroon due to the fast rate of wood logging.

“Depletion of the forests has led to diminishing of endangered animals. Our findings confirmed that these animals are escaping to Cameroon for safety.”

Responding, the two Village heads of Idundu and Orok Ekon, HH Effiom Ebanga and Chief Archibong Orok respectively, welcomed the initiative