The Nigerian Senate is investigating Cameroon’s alleged annexation of mangrove islands in Akwa Ibom State. The newly formed adhoc committee, chaired by Senator Jimoh Ibrahim, will assess the economic implications and violations of international law, with a report due in two months. Multiple senators underscored the urgency for action to protect Nigeria’s territorial interests.
The Nigerian Senate has taken steps to address the alleged illegal annexation of mangrove islands and maritime territories by Cameroon, as the government establishes an adhoc committee to investigate the situation. This initiative follows claims made by Senator Aniekan Bassey regarding the economic implications for Nigeria, particularly concerning over 2,560 oil wells in the disputed area of Efiat-Mbo, Akwa Ibom State.
Senator Godswill Akpabio, President of the Senate, announced the formation of the committee, which will be led by Senator Jimoh Ibrahim. 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 expected to report its findings within two months.
During the discussions, Senator Bassey emphasized that the mangrove islands in question were not included in the territories ceded to Cameroon under historical treaties or subsequent rulings by the International Court of Justice. He expressed concern over the presence of Cameroonian gendarmes imposing laws in 16 ancestral villages, representing a considerable violation of Nigerian sovereignty.
There have been serious economic repercussions due to the annexation, with Senator Bassey asserting that Nigeria has experienced a significant loss in oil and gas revenues. Furthermore, lawmakers highlighted this territorial encroachment as a violation of international agreements, proposing that the matter be escalated to the United Nations Convention for further examination.
Several senators voiced the urgency for a swift response, with some describing the affected local population as “stateless” due to the neglect from both nations. Senator Jibrin Barau and Senator Abdul Ningi stressed that immediate actions must be taken to address Nigeria’s perceived vulnerability on the international stage.
Following the adoption of the motion, Senator Akpabio reiterated the importance of reporting this issue to the United Nations and promised collaboration with the executive to ensure timely interventions. The adhoc committee is tasked with thoroughly investigating the annexation and will provide its findings within eight weeks.
The Senate’s establishment of an adhoc committee underscores the gravity of Cameroon’s alleged annexation of Nigerian territories. Amidst significant economic ramifications and violations of international agreements, the committee aims to address these issues promptly. As Nigeria navigates this situation, there is an emphasized need for protective action, ensuring the integrity of its territorial claims.
Original Source: dailypost.ng
