The Nigerian Senate is investigating Cameroon’s alleged annexation of Nigerian mangrove islands. An adhoc committee has been formed to report in two months. The Senate expressed concerns over potential economic losses and territorial integrity, urging the government to take immediate action.
The Nigerian Senate has launched an investigation into the Republic of Cameroon’s alleged illegal annexation of Nigerian mangrove islands located in Efiat-Mbo, Akwa Ibom State. This decision comes following concerns regarding territorial integrity and the potential economic repercussions of such encroachment, particularly regarding over 2,560 oil wells believed to be in the disputed areas.
Senator Jimoh Ibrahim of Ondo South will chair the newly formed adhoc committee. Other members include Senators Adeniyi Adegbonmire, Seriake Dickson, Shehu Lawan Kaka, Ipalibo Harry Banigo, Jarigbe Agom Jarigbe, Ekong Sampson Akpan, Mohammed Sani Bello, and Aniekan Bassey. The committee is mandated to conduct a thorough investigation and report its findings within two months.
The motion, introduced by Senator Aniekan Bassey, expresses alarm regarding Cameroonian incursions and underscores that the affected islands were not part of territories ceded to Cameroon in the historic 1913 treaties or the 2002 International Court of Justice ruling. Senator Bassey further criticized the imposition of foreign laws by Cameroonian gendarmes on Nigerians in the region, labeling it a significant national embarrassment.
Senator Bassey elucidated the economic consequences of Cameroon’s actions, stating, “This has caused Nigeria huge economic loss of more than 2,560 oil wells and gas revenues.”
The motion also further discussed the implications of violations of international agreements and called for a reevaluation of the ICJ ruling. Lawmakers emphasized the urgency of addressing this provocation by Cameroon, with numerous contributions highlighting the plight of affected Nigerians.
Senator Seriake Dickson described the local population as stateless, lamenting that both nations neglect their well-being. Deputy Senate President Jibrin Barau emphasized the need for immediate action, and other senators echoed this sentiment, voicing that Nigeria should respond decisively to protect its sovereignty and review its foreign policy.
Senator Jimoh Ibrahim reiterated concerns about Cameroon’s actions, suggesting that Nigeria bring the matter to the United Nations for resolution. President of the Senate, Godswill Akpabio, confirmed the committee’s formation and indicated a collaborative approach with the executive for a prompt response. The committee has been allotted eight weeks to provide a report to the Senate.
In conclusion, the Nigerian Senate’s establishment of an adhoc committee to investigate the alleged unlawful annexation of mangrove islands by Cameroon underscores its commitment to safeguarding national sovereignty. The concerns expressed about economic losses and the imposition of foreign laws on Nigerians highlight the need for urgent action. Furthermore, the proposed collaboration with international bodies signals a strategic approach to addressing this complex territorial dispute.
Original Source: dailypost.ng
