Nigerian Senate Investigates Alleged Annexation of Maritime Territory by Cameroon

The Nigerian Senate has initiated an investigation into Cameroon’s alleged annexation of its maritime territory and island villages, led by Senator Jimoh Ibrahim. Senator Aniekan Bassey highlighted the territory’s significance, arguing that the encroachment is illegal and harmful to Nigeria’s sovereignty. The Senate aims to involve President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for diplomatic resolution, with findings expected in two weeks.

On Tuesday, the Senate of Nigeria established an ad hoc committee led by Senator Jimoh Ibrahim (APC, Ondo South) to investigate allegations regarding the annexation of Nigeria’s maritime territory and mangrove island villages by Cameroon. This territory is primarily occupied by the Effiat clan in Mbo Local Government Area of Akwa Ibom State.

This investigation was initiated following the adoption of a motion proposed by Senator Aniekan Bassey (PDP, Akwa Ibom North East), which garnered support from six additional senators during the plenary session. The Mbo mangrove island, a crucial fishing settlement located west of the Rio Del Rey estuary, is also recognized for its oil wells and substantial gas reserves, marking a significant part of the international boundary between Nigeria and Cameroon.

Senator Bassey asserted that the territory in question was not included in the areas ceded to Cameroon as stipulated in the 1913 Anglo-German treaties or in the International Court of Justice (ICJ) ruling of October 2002. He characterized the annexation as illegal, resulting in the loss of over 2,560 oil wells and causing Nigeria to miss out on billions of dollars in oil and gas revenue.

Moreover, the senator claimed that the annexation has placed residents from 16 ancestral villages under the jurisdiction of Cameroonian law, labeling the situation a “national embarrassment” and “a threat to Nigeria’s sovereignty.” He stated, “The illegal occupation of these villages and waters by Cameroon contravenes the ICJ ruling… This is a direct assault on Nigeria’s territorial integrity.”

Deputy Senate President Barau Jibrin (APC, Kano North) emphasized the urgency of the situation, stating, “We cannot wait for a minute.” Senator Seriake Dickson (PDP, Bayelsa West) characterized the affected communities as “stateless” due to unclear jurisdiction from both nations.

The Senate has also resolved to consult with President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and the Ministry of Foreign Affairs to pursue diplomatic measures to address the alleged annexation. Senate President Godswill Akpabio instructed the ad-hoc committee to present its findings within a two-week timeframe. The committee comprises Senators Adeniyi Adegbonmire (APC, Ondo Central), Seriake Dickson (PDP, Bayelsa West), Shehu Kaka (APC, Borno Central), Ipalibo Harry Banigo (PDP, Rivers West), Agom Jarigbe (PDP, Cross River North), Ekong Sampson (PDP, Akwa Ibom South), alongside the motion sponsor, Senator Aniekan Bassey.

The establishment of a Senate committee to probe Cameroon’s alleged annexation of Nigerian maritime territory highlights the critical nature of territorial integrity and resource control for Nigeria. With significant implications for local communities and national sovereignty, the urgency emphasized by Senate leaders underscores the necessity for timely and effective diplomatic engagement. The forthcoming findings from the ad hoc committee could play a pivotal role in determining the future of the affected territories and their residents.

Original Source: dailytrust.com