The Nigerian Senate is pursuing the recovery of 2,560 oil wells and gas resources allegedly taken by Cameroon, located in mangrove islands of Akwa Ibom State. Senator Aniekan Bassey raised concerns about economic losses and the illegal annexation of these territories. Senate President Godswill Akpabio emphasized engagement with the Presidency for resolution and established a committee for investigation.
The Nigerian Senate has taken steps to reclaim approximately 2,560 oil wells and undisclosed gas resources reportedly seized by Cameroon. These valuable resources are believed to be located in mangrove islands across 16 communities within the Mbo local government area of Akwa Ibom State, lying adjacent to the Gulf of Guinea and the Atlantic coast. During a Senate plenary session, Senator Aniekan Bassey from Akwa Ibom North East raised concerns about the economic losses Nigeria has incurred due to this territorial encroachment.
Senator Bassey described the situation as a significant national embarrassment, emphasizing the imposition of foreign laws on Nigerians residing in their ancestral homes. He indicated that the territories claimed by Cameroon were illegally administered and distinct from those involved in the International Court of Justice ruling from October 2002, which led to Nigeria relinquishing the Bakassi Peninsula.
In part of his motion, Senator Bassey mentioned that these islands are crucial to the region’s economy, hosting vital fishing routes along with the aforementioned oil and gas resources. Despite the presence of Cameroonian soldiers in these communities, no actual Cameroonians reside there, which has led local residents to protest against the annexation.
Senator Bassey also referenced a 2016 conversation between former Nigerian President Muhammadu Buhari and Cameroon President Paul Biya, pertaining to Bakassi and hydrocarbon ventures. He expressed concern over Cameroon’s continued expansionist actions post-independence, which he views as a violation of international laws and Nigeria’s territorial integrity.
Additionally, Bassey recalled the 1964 African Unity resolution where all African nations, including Cameroon, agreed to respect one another’s borders. Drawing upon historical treaties and rulings, he argued that Cameroon could not legally claim Nigerian territories, thereby affecting Nigeria’s people and economy adversely.
Senate President Godswill Akpabio announced that the Senate would work with the Presidency to address this issue and retrieve the appropriated resources. A committee, chaired by Senator Jimoh Ibrahim, has been established to investigate the situation and provide a report in six weeks.
In summary, the Nigerian Senate’s efforts to reclaim its oil wells and gas resources from Cameroon underscore the importance of addressing territorial disputes and safeguarding national interests. Senator Bassey’s motion highlights the economic implications of such encroachments and the necessity for effective governance in maintaining Nigeria’s sovereignty. The Senate’s commitment to resolving this matter reflects its obligation towards protecting the nation’s resources and territorial integrity.
Original Source: thewhistler.ng
