Senate Launches Investigation into Cameroon’s Annexation of Nigerian Islands

Following allegations of illegal annexation of mangrove islands by Cameroon, the Nigerian Senate has formed an ad hoc committee to investigate the matter. The committee will report back within two months, exploring potential economic losses and international law violations. Lawmakers express a sense of urgency in addressing the situation, advocating for protective measures and review of international agreements.

The Nigerian Senate has initiated an investigation into the alleged illegal annexation of Nigeria’s mangrove islands by Cameroon, specifically in the Efiat-Mbo area of Akwa Ibom State. An ad hoc committee has been established, with a mandate to report its findings and recommendations within the next two months, as stated by Senate President Godswill Akpabio.

The committee, chaired by Senator Jimoh Ibrahim from Ondo South, includes notable senators such as Adeniyi Adegbonmire, Shehu Lawan Kaka, and others from various states. This decision comes in response to concerns raised by Senator Aniekan Bassey regarding the potential economic and territorial implications of Cameroon’s actions, which have been described as a “monumental national embarrassment.”

Senator Bassey emphasized that the mangrove islands in question were not part of the territories ceded to Cameroon by previous treaties or international rulings. He has highlighted the imposition of foreign laws on Nigerian residents by Cameroon’s security forces, which has sparked outrage. The annexation is reported to threaten Nigeria’s access to over 2,560 oil wells, further exacerbating the situation.

The motion also pointed to violations of international agreements, leading lawmakers to call for a review of the International Court of Justice (ICJ) ruling and to consider involvement from the United Nations Convention. Contributions from various senators reflected a consensus on the urgency of taking decisive action to address this provocation by Cameroon, asserting it challenges Nigeria’s sovereignty.

Senator Seriake Dickson condemned the plight of affected Nigerians, while Deputy Senate President Jibrin Barau stressed the necessity for immediate action. The Senate has given the committee eight weeks to conduct a thorough investigation and report back, reinforcing Nigeria’s commitment to defending its territorial integrity and economic interests.

The Senate’s formation of an ad hoc committee underscores the seriousness of the situation regarding Cameroon’s alleged annexation of Nigerian territories. The investigation aims to protect Nigeria’s economic interests and territory, emphasizing adherence to international agreements. The overall sentiment among lawmakers is of urgency and a unified call for safeguarding the nation’s sovereignty against perceived encroachments from Cameroon.

Original Source: dailypost.ng