In a move to safeguard lives and critical infrastructure, the Cross River State House of Assembly has directed the immediate removal and replacement of aging trees posing threats to power lines and public safety across the state.
The directive followed a motion presented during plenary on Wednesday by Hon. Francis Ogban, representing Biase State Constituency, who raised alarm over the growing danger posed by overgrown and decaying trees situated dangerously close to electrical infrastructure. According to him, many of the trees have become liabilities, risking both power disruptions and potential accidents.
“We must take preventive steps now rather than wait for disaster to strike,” Ogban warned, advocating for a strategic and environmentally balanced approach to address the issue.
Chairman of the House Committee on Environment, Hon. Ovat Agbor, criticized state agencies for ignoring earlier warnings, noting that the resulting inaction has led to avoidable risks and disruptions.
Other lawmakers echoed the urgency of the matter, calling for swift and coordinated efforts to protect both citizens and essential services.
As part of its resolution, the House also charged the Ministry of Environment to begin planting safer and more suitable tree species to replace the aging ones, in a bid to maintain ecological balance while protecting infrastructure.
Speaker of the House, Rt. Hon. Elvert Ayambem commended the initiative, stating, “This House will not wait for disasters to occur before we act. We must lead with foresight, and today’s resolution is a reflection of that commitment.”
