The Nigerian Senate has formed an ad-hoc committee to investigate and address Cameroon’s illegal annexation of maritime territories, including mangrove islands in Akwa Ibom and Cross River State. Lawmakers emphasize the violation of legal treaties and express the economic impact of the annexation. Urgent diplomatic and legal actions are being urged to protect Nigeria’s interests.
The Nigerian Senate has initiated an ad-hoc committee to investigate Cameroon’s alleged annexation of territories, including mangrove islands and villages in Akwa Ibom and Cross River State. This initiative was sparked by a motion sponsored by Senator Aniekan Bassey of Akwa Ibom North-East and supported by six colleagues during a plenary session on Tuesday.
The contested islands, significant for their oil wells and gas reserves, have become a crucial matter of dispute. Legislators assert that Cameroon’s actions contravene historical agreements, including the 1913 Anglo-Japan treaties and the 2002 International Court of Justice ruling, as well as various sections of the Nigerian Constitution.
Senator Bassey expressed that this encroachment has incurred substantial economic detriment for Nigeria, specifically mentioning the loss of access to over 2,560 oil wells and associated gas revenue. He articulated the urgent necessity for intervention in light of these economic challenges.
Cross River North Senatorial District representative, Jarigbe Agom Jarigbe, raised concerns regarding the actions of Cameroonian gendarmes, who have reportedly harassed local residents, including women within the border communities. He underscored the need for prompt action to address these violations of sovereignty and domestic law.
Jarigbe further referenced the 1982 United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea, asserting Nigeria’s rights within its Exclusive Economic Zone (EEZ), which extends 200 nautical miles. He advocated for diplomatic and legal measures to counter this infringement.
The ad-hoc committee, under the leadership of Senator Jimoh Ibrahim, includes notable senators such as Seriake Dickson and Aniekan Bassey. The Senate has resolved to consult with President Bola Tinubu concerning diplomatic negotiations to remedy the situation involving Cameroon’s illegal annexation of Nigerian territories.
The Nigerian Senate’s formation of an ad-hoc committee marks a pivotal step in addressing Cameroon’s alleged illegal annexation of maritime territories. Highlighting historical and legal precedents, the Senate calls for diplomatic engagement with the executive branch to safeguard Nigeria’s territorial integrity. The urgency of this matter reflects the economic implications and the necessity for immediate action against external territorial violations.
Original Source: www.calitown.com
