Nigerian Senate Investigates Cameroon’s Alleged Annexation of…

The Nigerian Senate has initiated an investigation into Cameroon’s alleged illegal annexation of Nigerian maritime territories, spurred by a motion from Senator Aniekan Bassey. The committee emphasizes the significant economic losses incurred due to this annexation and the need for legal action. Additionally, concerns have been raised regarding the conduct of Cameroonian forces against border communities. The Senate seeks to engage President Bola Tinubu for diplomatic resolution.

The Nigerian Senate has constituted an ad-hoc committee to investigate Cameroon’s alleged annexation of maritime territories, specifically mangrove islands and villages in the Akwa Ibom and Cross River State regions. This decision follows a motion introduced by Senator Aniekan Bassey, representing Akwa Ibom North-East, and was co-sponsored by six other senators during the plenary session on Tuesday.

The disputed territory, which is notable for its abundant oil and gas reserves, has long been contentious. Senators unanimously argued that Cameroon’s actions are illegal, violating established treaties such as the 1913 Anglo-Japan treaties and the ruling of the International Court of Justice (ICJ) from October 2002, as well as specific provisions within the Nigerian Constitution.

Senator Bassey highlighted the severe economic repercussions of Cameroon’s encroachment, estimating a loss of over 2,560 oil wells and corresponding gas revenues to Nigeria. Furthermore, Senator Jarigbe Agom Jarigbe, representing Cross River North, raised alarms about the aggressive conduct of Cameroonian gendarmes, who are reportedly harassing and assaulting local residents along the border.

Jarigbe stressed the crucial need for immediate actions, advocating for the domestic implementation of the Anglo-German treaties and adherence to international laws related to state sovereignty and territorial waters. He called upon the government to pursue both diplomatic and legal measures to rectify the situation.

Additionally, he referenced the 1982 United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea (UNCLOS), which defines an Exclusive Economic Zone (EEZ) extending 200 nautical miles, affirming sovereign rights for coastal states. The newly formed ad-hoc committee, led by Senator Jimoh Ibrahim, includes Senators Seriake Dickson, Jarigbe Agom Jarigbe, Shehu Kaka, Adegbonmire Adeniyi, Ipalibo Harry Banigo, Aniekan Bassey, and Ekong Sampson.

In its resolution, the Senate has committed to consulting President Bola Tinubu regarding the issue and has encouraged him to foster diplomatic relations to counter Cameroon’s assertion over Nigeria’s maritime territories and mangrove islands.

In summary, the Nigerian Senate’s formation of an ad-hoc committee underscores the urgency of addressing Cameroon’s purported illegal annexation of Nigerian territories. The committee’s efforts aim to protect national sovereignty, advocate for the local community’s rights, and explore diplomatic and legal solutions to this pressing issue.

Original Source: www.calitown.com