Reps call for swift resolution of Nigeria-Cameroun border dispute
Post By Diaspoint | July 16, 2023
The House of Representatives Ad-hoc Committee on the resolution of the Nigeria –Cameroun Border dispute on Thursday called on both parties in the dispute to work out a swift and peaceful resolution of the dispute in the interest of international peace and security.
Chairperson of the House Committee Hon Beni Lar made the call in a press briefing of the Committee at the National Assembly where she said that the body is deeply concerned about the potential loss of a significant landmass and Nigerian citizens residing within it to the Cameroon Republic.
It would be recalled that on Wednesday 5 July 2023, the House of Representatives deliberated on the issue vide a motion and resolved to constitute an Ad-hoc Committee to investigate and assess the case of potential land encroachment by the Cameroonian government and to ensure a thorough understanding of the security implication of the dispute and of the technical aspects involved in
resolving the dispute.
She said that the Committee has since commenced activities and would like to discuss the progress so far.
To start with, this Ad-Hoc Committee on Nigeria-Cameroon Border Dispute urges all stakeholders to coordinate a swift resolution of the dispute in order to prevent loss of land and citizens to the Republic of Cameroon.
The Committee she said, recognizes the gravity of the situation and the profound implications it holds for Nigeria’s territorial integrity and the welfare of its citizens.
According to her, swift resolution is imperative to prevent history from repeating itself and to protect the rights and interests of Nigerians living in the affected areas
It also lamented the loss of a sizeable landmass to the Camreounians on the Bakassi Peninsula due to the judgement of the International Court of Justice in Haque in 2002.
The Committee appreciated the efforts of organizations and individuals who have worked tirelessly to ensure Nigeria is not short-changed in the border dispute:
The Committee identified and commended the Office of the National Security Adviser NSA for playing a pivotal role in providing strategic guidance and intelligence to the Committee and enabling informed decision-making and proactive measures in the resolution of the dispute.
Other critical stakeholders are the Attorney -General of the Federation, Surveyor-General of the Federation, the National Boundaries Commission and the the Governor of Cross Rivers State. among others.
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