Senate Establishes Committee to Investigate Cameroon’s Territorial Encroachment

The Nigerian Senate has established an ad hoc committee to investigate Cameroon’s alleged encroachment on Nigerian territory, particularly oil wells. Chaired by Senator Jimoh Ibrahim, the committee includes several notable members and has a two-month timeline to report back. Senator Aniekan Bassey’s motion underscores the territorial integrity issue, citing significant economic losses, and the need for swift action, including engagement with international bodies.

The Nigerian Senate has established an ad hoc committee to investigate claims that Cameroon has encroached upon Nigeria’s territorial boundaries, particularly concerning its oil wells. Senate President Godswill Akpabio shared the committee’s formation during Tuesday’s plenary session, which garnered overwhelming support through voice votes. This committee is mandated to submit its findings and recommendations within two months.

The committee will be chaired by Senator Jimoh Ibrahim of Ondo South, with notable members including Senators Seriake Dickson (Bayelsa West) and Ipalibo Banigo (Rivers West). Additional members include Adeniyi Adegbonmire (Ondo Central), Shehu Kaka (Borno Central), Agom Jarigbe (Cross River Central), and Ekong Samson (Akwa Ibom South). Senator Aniekan Bassey, who proposed the motion on the issue, is also part of the committee.

Senator Bassey’s motion, titled “Illegal annexation of Nigerian mangrove islands, waters, and its crude oil by the republic of Cameroon,” asserts the annexed regions were not included in the territory designated to Cameroon. He emphasized that this encroachment has led to substantial losses, amounting to over 2,560 oil wells and gas revenues, deeming it a violation of Nigeria’s territorial integrity.

Bassey highlighted, “It is an affront on Nigeria’s territorial integrity and unlawful exploitation of Nigeria’s economic resources.” He noted that the illegal occupation contradicts various legal frameworks, including the ICJ ruling and the 1913 Anglo-German treaties.

Senator Ibrahim, supporting the motion, stated that Nigeria must bring this matter to international attention, specifically the United Nations, implying the need for action in safeguarding the nation’s sovereignty. He cautioned that such territorial violations could lead to environmental hazards and a decline in national revenue.

Senator Victor Umeh stressed the importance of enforcing the ICJ’s ruling on the annexed territories, arguing that Nigeria should not be a passive recipient of judicial decisions. He urged swift action to reclaim areas with considerable oil resources. Other senators, including Barau Jibrin, Abdul Ningi, and Asuquo Ekpenyong, also voiced their support for the motion.

The committee is expected to interface with vital stakeholders, such as the National Boundary Commission, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, and relevant security agencies as part of their investigative process.

The Senate’s formation of an ad hoc committee addresses serious allegations of Cameroon’s territorial encroachment, particularly impacting Nigeria’s oil wells. Under the leadership of Senator Jimoh Ibrahim, the committee aims to provide actionable insights and recommendations to uphold Nigeria’s sovereignty and economic interests. The commitment to engage with key stakeholders signals a proactive approach to resolving potential disputes while emphasizing the significance of national integrity and legal compliance.

Original Source: www.thecable.ng