- Advertisement -The Cross River State House of Assembly (CRHA) has intervened in the dispute between Ekuri forest community and timber company, Ezemac International (Nig.) Limited, following allegations of unsustainable and unauthorised logging activities in the community forest. Governor Prince Bassey Edet Otu of Cross River StateAddressing the committee, community leader, Dr. Martins Egot, said the dispute highlights broader concerns around community forest governance and environmental protection. Responding, Ezemac International, represented by its manager, Mr. Steven Asuwac, acknowledged a previous encroachment into Ekuri forest in 2023, for which compensation was paid. The committee also asked the Ekuri community to submit a unified position, as the Assembly continues efforts to safeguard environmental sustainability, community rights and lawful investment in the state’s forest sector.