The Nigerian Senate has created an ad-hoc committee to investigate Cameroon’s illegal annexation of maritime territories and mangrove islands in Akwa Ibom and Cross River State. A sponsored motion highlighted violations of international law, including the 1913 Anglo-Japan treaties and the ICJ decision. Senators called for both diplomatic and legal actions against Cameroon, noting significant economic losses for Nigeria, prompting engagement with President Bola Tinubu.
The Nigerian Senate has initiated the establishment of an ad-hoc committee to investigate Cameroon’s alleged illegal annexation of maritime territories, mangrove islands, and villages within Akwa Ibom and Cross River State. This decision emerged from a motion put forth by Senator Aniekan Bassey, representing Akwa Ibom North-East, and supported by six additional senators during a plenary session held on Tuesday.
The contested island, known to possess significant oil wells and gas reserves, has remained a significant issue between the two nations. Lawmakers have indicated that Cameroon’s actions contravene several legal standings: the 1913 Anglo-Japan treaties, an October 2002 ruling from the International Court of Justice (ICJ), and specific provisions in Section 12 of the Nigerian Constitution.
Senator Bassey raised concerns regarding the substantial economic losses incurred due to this annexation, noting that over 2,560 oil wells and corresponding gas revenues have been unjustly withheld from Nigeria. During the session, Senator Jarigbe Agom Jarigbe from Cross River North expressed alarm regarding aggressive actions taken by Cameroonian gendarmes, who have purportedly been harassing and assaulting residents in Nigerian border areas, including vulnerable women.
The senator emphasized the critical need for prompt action on this matter, advocating for the domestication of the Anglo-German treaties and invoking international laws pertinent to state sovereignty and territorial waters, which have been allegedly flouted by Cameroon. He further urged the Nigerian government to pursue both diplomatic and legal avenues to remedy the situation.
Moreover, Jarigbe referenced the 1982 United Nations Convention on the Laws of the Sea (UNCLOS), underscoring the delineation of an Exclusive Economic Zone (EEZ) that affords 200 nautical miles as sovereign territory.
The ad-hoc committee will be overseen by Senator Jimoh Ibrahim and includes prominent senators such as Seriake Dickson, Jarigbe Agom Jarigbe, Shehu Kaka, Adeniyi Adegbonmire, Ipalibo Harry Banigo, Aniekan Bassey, and Ekong Sampson. Following the discussions, the Nigerian Senate resolved to bring this issue to President Bola Tinubu’s attention and to advance diplomatic efforts addressing Cameroon’s alleged annexation of these Nigerian territories.
In conclusion, the Nigerian Senate’s action to form an ad-hoc committee signifies a serious commitment to addressing the illegal annexation of maritime territories by Cameroon. The discussion emphasizes the significant economic implications for Nigeria, the legal grounds for contesting Cameroon’s actions, and the urgency of diplomatic engagement. The situation underscores the importance of adhering to both national and international law regarding territorial integrity and sovereignty.
Original Source: www.calitown.com
