The Nigerian Senate has formed an ad-hoc committee to investigate Cameroon’s alleged illegal annexation of maritime territories and mangrove islands. Senators have raised concerns over economic losses and harassment of local communities, emphasizing the need for diplomatic and legal actions. The resolution calls for government engagement to address these violations and protect Nigeria’s interests.
The Nigerian Senate has formed an ad-hoc committee to probe the alleged illegal annexation of its maritime territories, including mangrove islands and villages in Akwa Ibom and Cross River State, by Cameroon. This initiative followed a motion sponsored by Senator Aniekan Bassey and supported by six other senators during a plenary session on Tuesday.
The contested islands, which are rich in oil and gas reserves, have been highlighted by lawmakers as key to Nigeria’s economic interests. They argue that Cameroon’s actions contravene historical treaties, such as the 1913 Anglo-Japan treaties, the ICJ ruling of October 2002, and the Nigerian Constitution, Sections 12 subsections 1, 2, and 3.
Senator Bassey pointed out the economic ramifications of this annexation, stating that Nigeria has lost access to over 2,560 oil wells and significant gas revenue. Senator Jarigbe Agom Jarigbe from Cross River North added that the presence of Cameroonian gendarmes has led to harassment of Nigerian residents near the border, demanding urgent intervention on behalf of these communities.
Jarigbe stressed the importance of adhering to international treaties regarding state sovereignty and claims over territorial waters. He advocated for immediate diplomatic and legal measures to confront this situation and referred to the 1982 UNCLOS, which outlines Exclusive Economic Zones where nations have rights over marine resources within 200 nautical miles of their shores.
The committee, chaired by Jimoh Ibrahim, includes senators Seriake Dickson, Jarigbe Agom Jarigbe, Shehu Kaka, Adeniyi Adegbonmire, Ipalibo Harry Banigo, Aniekan Bassey, and Ekong Sampson. The Senate resolution calls upon President Bola Tinubu to actively engage in diplomatic efforts to counter Cameroon’s annexation of Nigerian maritime areas.
The Nigerian Senate’s formation of an ad-hoc committee underscores the seriousness of Cameroon’s alleged illegal annexation of maritime territories. The emphasis on historical treaties, economic losses, and international law highlights the urgency for Nigeria to take diplomatic and legal action. Immediate engagements with national leadership aim to reclaim sovereignty over disputed regions and protect the rights of affected residents.
Original Source: www.calitown.com
