Senate Forms Committee to Investigate Cameroon’s Oil Well Encroachment

The Nigerian Senate has formed an ad hoc committee to investigate Cameroon’s claimed encroachment into Nigerian territory, focusing on lost oil wells. This committee, led by Senator Jimoh Ibrahim, is to report back within two months with recommendations. The issue is underscored by concerns over territorial integrity and economic exploitation.

In response to allegations of territorial encroachment by Cameroon, the Senate has established an ad hoc committee to investigate this matter. Senate President Godswill Akpabio announced the formation of the committee during a plenary session, which received overwhelming support from the senators through voice votes. The committee is tasked with presenting its findings and recommendations within a two-month timeframe.

The committee will be chaired by Senator Jimoh Ibrahim of Ondo South, with notable members including Senators Seriake Dickson (Bayelsa West), Ipalibo Banigo (Rivers West), Adeniyi Adegbonmire (Ondo Central), Shehu Kaka (Borno Central), Agom Jarigbe (Cross River Central), and Ekong Samson (Akwa Ibom South). Aniekan Bassey, the senator representing Akwa Ibom North-West who initiated the motion, is also a member of this committee.

The motion, titled “Illegal annexation of Nigerian mangrove islands, waters, and its crude oil by the Republic of Cameroon,” highlights that the annexed areas were not part of the territory granted to Cameroon. Senator Bassey stated that this encroachment has resulted in the loss of over 2,560 oil wells and significant gas revenues, describing it as an affront to Nigeria’s territorial integrity and an illegal exploitation of its resources.

Senator Ibrahim emphasized the need for Nigeria to report this issue to the United Nations, asserting that the Senate cannot remain silent in the face of threats to national sovereignty. He warned that this situation not only violates territorial rights but could also lead to environmental disasters and decreased national revenue.

Victor Umeh, the senator for Anambra Central, urged action to enforce the International Court of Justice’s ruling regarding the mangrove islands, asserting that Nigeria must actively work to reclaim its territory and wealth, which includes over 2,000 oil wells. Additional contributions to the motion were made by Deputy Senate President Barau Jibrin, Senator Abdul Ningi (Bauchi Central), and Senator Asuquo Ekpenyong (Cross River South).

The committee is expected to collaborate with key stakeholders such as the National Boundary Commission, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, and various security agencies to address this critical issue.

In conclusion, the establishment of the ad hoc committee by the Senate to investigate Cameroon’s alleged encroachment highlights the seriousness of protecting Nigeria’s territorial integrity and economic resources. With prominent senators leading this initiative, there is an urgent call to action to enforce international rulings and recover lost assets. The outcome of this investigation and subsequent recommendations may shape Nigeria’s strategy in defending its territorial rights.

Original Source: www.thecable.ng