The Nigerian Senate has formed an ad hoc committee to investigate Cameroon’s alleged annexation of mangrove islands in Akwa Ibom State. The committee will report in two months, amid concerns over territorial integrity and economic loss related to oil wells. Senators have urged immediate action from the government and suggested international discourse to address these violations.
The Nigerian Senate has established an ad hoc committee to examine the alleged illegal annexation of mangrove islands and maritime territories in Akwa Ibom State by Cameroon. This initiative comes in response to concerns raised regarding the economic implications and territorial integrity of Nigeria following Cameroon’s encroachment, with a report due in two months.
The ad hoc committee will be led by Senator Jimoh Ibrahim, joined by other members including Senators Adeniyi Adegbonmire and Seriake Dickson. The Senate’s decision is prompted by a motion from Senator Aniekan Bassey, highlighting that the affected islands were not ceded to Cameroon as per various historical agreements.
Senator Bassey emphasized the imposition of foreign laws on Nigerian residents in ancestral villages, labeling this as a significant national embarrassment. He further reported that over 2,560 oil wells may contribute to substantial economic losses for Nigeria due to this territorial transgression.
Lawmakers expressed urgency in addressing Cameroon’s actions, which they deem as violations of international agreements. There were calls for revising the International Court of Justice’s judgment, along with discussions surrounding reporting the matter to the United Nations.
Senator Seriake Dickson voiced concerns over residents being treated as “stateless” due to overlapping territorial claims. In support of immediate action, Deputy Senate President Senator Jibrin Barau stressed the importance of a prompt response to protect national sovereignty.
Senator Abdul Ningi underscored the seriousness of the situation, while Senator Jimoh Ibrahim invited discussions at international forums regarding Nigeria’s sovereignty. Following the resolutions, Senate President Godswill Akpabio appointed the committee and urged swift cooperation with the executive branch for a timely investigation.
The Senate’s proactive measures regarding the alleged annexation of Nigerian territories by Cameroon signify a critical response to encroachments on national sovereignty. Through establishing an ad hoc committee and urging immediate governmental action, the Senate aims to safeguard Nigeria’s territorial integrity and address economic repercussions. The need for international engagement highlights the significance of this issue in Nigeria’s foreign policy and diplomatic relations.
Original Source: dailypost.ng
