Senate Investigates Cameroon’s Alleged Annexation of Nigerian Oil-Rich Islands

Cameroon’s Alleged Annexation Triggers Senate Investigation

The Nigerian Senate has opened an investigation into Cameroon’s alleged annexation of Nigeria’s mangrove islands, waters, and crude oil resources. This decision follows a motion by Senator Aniekan Bassey (Akwa Ibom North-West), which received strong support during Tuesday’s plenary session.

Bassey, citing orders 41 and 51 of the Senate standing rules, warned that Nigeria has already lost over 2,560 oil wells and substantial gas revenue.

“It is an affront to Nigeria’s territorial integrity and an unlawful exploitation of our economic resources,” he declared.

According to him, Cameroon’s occupation violates multiple agreements, including the International Court of Justice (ICJ) ruling, the 1913 Anglo-German treaties, and parts of the Nigerian Constitution.

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Senate Forms Committee to Address Cameroon’s Encroachment

In response, Senate President Godswill Akpabio established an ad hoc committee to investigate the situation and submit a report within two months.

The committee, led by Senator Jimoh Ibrahim (Ondo South), includes:

• Seriake Dickson (Bayelsa West)
• Ipalibo Banigo (Rivers West)
• Adeniyi Adegbonmire (Ondo Central)
• Shehu Kaka (Borno Central)
• Agom Jarigbe (Cross River Central)
• Ekong Samson (Akwa Ibom South)
• Aniekan Bassey, sponsor of the motion

Calls for Immediate Diplomatic and Legal Action

Several senators have urged swift diplomatic and legal action. Senator Victor Umeh (Anambra Central) insisted that Nigeria must enforce the ICJ ruling to reclaim its territory.

“Let us act fast and recover our territory with over 2,000 oil wells,” he emphasized.

Meanwhile, Jimoh Ibrahim called for the issue to be escalated to the United Nations (UN). He warned that Cameroon’s actions could cause an environmental disaster and significantly reduce national revenue.

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“The Senate cannot remain silent when our country’s sovereignty is at risk,” Ibrahim asserted.

Other lawmakers, including Deputy Senate President Barau Jibrin, Abdul Ningi (Bauchi Central), and Asuquo Ekpenyong (Cross River South), also expressed concerns over Nigeria’s security and economy.

What Happens Next?

The Senate committee will collaborate with key stakeholders, such as the National Boundary Commission (NBC), the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, and security agencies, to determine Nigeria’s next course of action as to cameroon’s annexation of Nigerian islands.

With billions of dollars in oil revenue at stake, this matter could escalate into a major diplomatic conflict. The coming months will be crucial in shaping Nigeria’s territorial and economic future.