Reps panel seeks action to avert loss of land, citizens to Cameroun

AD HOC committee of the House of Representatives has expressed concern over another likely loss of land and Nigerian citizens to the Cameroun Republic. The Chairman of the committee, Mrs Benny Lar, expressed the concern, yesterday.

The committee, which is probing land encroachment by the Camerounian Government, said efforts must be made to prevent reoccurrence of the loss of Bakassi Peninsula. The Plateau State-born lawmaker spoke during the commencement of the committee’s proceedings, underscoring the urgent need to determine the border between the two countries.
 
“Swift resolution is imperative to prevent history from repeating itself and to protect the rights and interests of Nigerians living in the affected areas,” she noted. She contended that constructive dialogue, negotiation and cooperation are essential to reaching a fair and just solution that respects historical, cultural, and social ties while protecting the rights of Nigerian citizens.
 
The committee also called on Nigerian citizens, civil society organisations and stakeholders to remain calm, patient, trusting the efforts of those charged legally to protect the Nigerian territory.

She solicited the support of the National Security Adviser (NSA), Mallam Nuhu Ribadu, in providing strategic guidance and intelligence to enable the committee arrived at informed decision-making and the need to take proactive measures to protect Nigeria’s territorial integrity.