The Nigerian Senate has established an ad-hoc committee to investigate the alleged illegal annexation of mangrove islands by Cameroon. Senators are urging President Bola Tinubu to protect Nigeria’s territorial waters and economic interests, particularly concerning oil wells. The committee will report in eight weeks, following concerns raised over the humiliation and economic losses faced by Nigerian citizens in the affected areas.
In response to the alleged illegal annexation of Nigerian mangrove islands by Cameroon, the Nigerian Senate established an ad-hoc committee to investigate the matter and present recommendations within two months. This decision followed concerns over Cameroon’s encroachment on territories in Efiat-Mbo, Akwa Ibom State, affecting Nigeria’s maritime sovereignty.
The Senate has also urged President Bola Tinubu to take measures to protect Nigeria’s territorial waters, particularly safeguarding the over 2,560 oil wells located in the disputed mangrove islands. The committee, chaired by Senator Jimoh Ibrahim from Ondo South, includes other senators from various regions as members.
Senator Aniekan Bassey initiated the motion, highlighting the economic and territorial repercussions of Cameroon’s actions. He asserted that the mangrove islands in question were not part of territories ceded to Cameroon under the historical treaties or the International Court of Justice ruling from 2002. Bassey reported that Cameroonian security forces have unlawfully imposed foreign laws on Nigerians in the region, describing this behavior as a “monumental national embarrassment.”
He conveyed that this annexation has led to significant economic losses for Nigeria, as the resources from the oil wells are vital for the nation’s revenue. Furthermore, the senator criticized Cameroon’s expansionist policy as a violation of international law, undermining Nigeria’s sovereignty and exploiting its resources.
The motion also called for a review of the ICJ ruling and suggested that the situation be reported to the United Nations Convention. Numerous lawmakers echoed the urgency for swift action to manage what they considered a provocative act by Cameroon, with various representatives addressing the adverse effects on communities affected by the annexation.
Senator Seriake Dickson characterized the residents of the contested areas as “stateless,” subjected to unfair treatment by both nations. He referenced past protective measures, highlighting the legacy of former military leader General Sani Abacha during times of national crisis. Other senators supported immediate action, asserting that the crisis affects all Nigerians and urging the Senate leadership to engage with President Bola Tinubu.
Senator Jibrin Barau called for quick action, emphasizing the necessity for Nigeria to assert its rights, while Senator Jimoh Ibrahim framed the developments as a challenge to Nigeria’s sovereignty, advocating for an approach to international bodies like the United Nations. Conclusion of the discussions led to the Senate’s commitment to quickly address the situation, with a timeline set for the committee to report back.
The Nigerian Senate’s formation of an ad-hoc committee to investigate Cameroon’s alleged annexation of Nigerian mangrove islands reflects a crucial action in safeguarding national territorial integrity. The economic implications raised in the motion underscore the stakes involved, emphasizing the need for both diplomatic and assertive responses. Lawmakers’ calls for thorough investigation and engagement with international entities suggest a unified approach to delivering justice for affected Nigerian communities.
Original Source: dailypost.ng
