Mangrove Islands: Cameroon’s takeover threatens Nigeria’s sovereignty, warns Senator Bassey

ABUJA – The Senator representing Akwa Ibom North-East Senatorial District, Aniekan Bassey, has stated that Cameroon’s takeover of the Mangrove Islands in Nigerian maritime territory poses a significant threat to national sovereignty and economic interests.

During Tuesday’s Senate session, key lawmakers addressed this pressing issue.

Bassey referenced the treaties of 1913 and the International Court of Justice ruling from October 2002, describing the annexation as “an affront to Nigeria’s territorial integrity and an unlawful exploitation of Nigeria’s economic resources.”

He highlighted that the disputed fishing settlement, which includes oil wells and gas reserves, has resulted in considerable economic losses for Nigeria.

The lawmaker also commended Senate President Godswill Akpabio and Deputy Senate President Barau Jibrin for their leadership.

“I truly appreciate Akpabio; he has made me proud with his commendable efforts,” he remarked.

Other senators expressed their support for the motion, leading to the establishment of an ad-hoc committee tasked with investigating the annexation of the Mangrove Islands in the Effiat clan villages of Mbo Local Government Area.

Chaired by Senator Jimoh Ibrahim (APC-Ondo), the committee comprises Senators Adeniyi Adegbonmire, Seriake Dickson, Shehu Kaka, Ipalibo Harry Banigo, Agom Jarigbe, Ekong Sampson, and Senator Bassey himself.

Senator Jimoh Ibrahim cautioned, “We need to report this matter to the United Nations,” while Senator Victor Umeh called for swift action to reclaim the territory and its resources.

The Senate resolution urged the National Boundary Commission and the Attorney General to enforce international rulings and to consult with President Bola Tinubu. The committee is expected to report its findings within two weeks.