The Nigerian Senate has formed an ad hoc committee to investigate Cameroon’s alleged annexation of Nigerian mangrove Islands. The committee, led by Senator Jimoh Ibrahim, will report within two months. Senators expressed concerns over economic losses, foreign law imposition, and the need for immediate action. President Bola Tinubu has been urged to protect Nigeria’s territorial waters.
In response to the alleged annexation of Nigeria’s mangrove Islands by the Republic of Cameroon, the Nigerian Senate has established an ad hoc committee to investigate the situation. This committee is charged with delivering its findings and recommendations in the next two months. The Senate has also urged President Bola Tinubu to take immediate actions to protect Nigeria’s territorial waters and the significant oil resources located within the disputed areas.
Senator Godswill Akpabio, President of the Senate, announced the committee’s formation, which will be led by Senator Jimoh Ibrahim (Ondo South). Additional members include Senators Adeniyi Adegbonmire, Seriake Dickson, Shehu Lawan Kaka, Ipalibo Harry Banigo, Jarigbe Agom Jarigbe, Ekong Sampson Akpan, Mohammed Sani Bello, and Aniekan Bassey, who sponsored the initial motion.
The motion brought forth by Senator Aniekan Bassey emphasized the economic and territorial ramifications of Cameroon’s encroachment, noting that the mangrove Islands in question were not included in territories ceded to Cameroon in historical treaties or court rulings. He expressed concerns over the imposition of foreign laws by Cameroonian gendarmes on Nigerians inhabiting the affected locations, labeling this as a significant national disgrace.
Senator Bassey further articulated that the encroachment results in substantial economic losses for Nigeria, including the potential loss of revenues from over 2,560 oil wells. He condemned the actions of Cameroon as unlawful exploitation of Nigeria’s resources and a violation of international agreements. He highlighted the plight of approximately 16 Nigerian ancestral villages that have been occupied by Cameroonian forces.
The discussion among senators underscored the urgency of addressing this matter to avoid further escalation. Senator Seriake Dickson described the affected individuals as “stateless” due to the lack of governmental protection from both nations. Deputy Senate President Senator Jibrin Barau advocated for swift action, asserting that Nigerian prestige is at stake and forwarding the suggestion to reassess Nigeria’s foreign policy towards African relations.
Senator Jimoh Ibrahim voiced that Cameroon’s actions challenge Nigeria’s sovereignty and suggested the involvement of the United Nations. Concluding the session, Senate President Akpabio confirmed the committee’s mandate for thorough investigations into the territorial encroachment, indicating collaboration with the executive for timely intervention, with an eight-week deadline for the committee to report back.
The establishment of the Senate ad hoc committee reflects Nigeria’s serious approach to addressing the alleged illegal annexation of its mangrove Islands by Cameroon. The discussion highlighted the economic losses and violations of territorial integrity this situation has caused. Urgent action is deemed necessary to prevent further escalation and to reaffirm Nigeria’s sovereignty. With clear resolutions in place, the Senate aims to engage pertinent authorities and international frameworks to remedy this issue effectively.
Original Source: dailypost.ng
