By Godwin Ajom
The lawmaker representing Boki/Ikom Federal Constituency in the House of Representatives, Rt. Hon. Victor Abang, has condemned the invasion of Danare Community in Cross River State, by armed Cameroonian soldiers.
The Lawmaker describes the action as a direct affront to Nigeria’s sovereignty and territorial integrity. Hon. Victor Abang’s reaction followed Wednesday’s incursion into the border community located in Boki Local Government Area, an incident that triggered panic among residents.
Residents reported that sporadic shooting filled the air during the process and left the entire area in chaos. The federal legislator expressed concern over the recurring nature of such border incidents, warning that they pose serious security risks to affected communities and the nation at large.
He maintained that the unauthorized entry of foreign troops into Nigerian territory was unacceptable and should not be tolerated under any circumstance.
According to him, beyond the security implications, the development threatens the cordial relationship that has existed between Nigeria and Cameroon for decades and could negatively affect the livelihoods of residents who rely on peaceful cross border activities.
Abang commended the people of Danare for remaining calm despite the tension generated by the incident, noting that their restraint helped to avert a possible escalation of the situation.
He called on the Federal Government to take immediate diplomatic steps to engage Cameroonian authorities and address the persistent boundary disputes affecting communities along the Nigeria-Cameroon border.
The Nigerian Army 82 Division, has confirmed the authorized patrol entry Into Nigerian territory with community members reporting severe panic because of the action.
They expressed concern of the invasion. Lieutenant Colonel Olabisi Olalekan Ayeni, Acting Deputy Director Army Public Relations, 82 Division, in a statement made available said troops of the Nigerian Army deployed at the Forward Operating Base Danare, Upon receiving reports of foreign military presence, promptly responded.
He said the military contacted appropriate Cameroonian Armed Forces authority which led to the withdrawal of their troops from Nigerian territory in line with established border protocols.
The situation, according to the Nigerian military, “was immediately contained without further escalation.” Preliminary findings indicate that the incident was triggered by a dispute over the collection of levies on farmland located between Danare Community (Nigeria) and Dadi Community (Cameroon).
“In furtherance of existing diplomatic and military cooperation and as a confidence‑building measure, the General Officer Commanding 82 Division has directed the Commander 13 Brigade to visit his Cameroonian counterpart for further engagement on the situation. This is designed to strengthen border coordination, clarify operating procedures along the boundary, and prevent future occurrences,” the Army added.
The 82 Division says they remain committed to safeguarding Nigeria’s territorial integrity and ensuring the security of all communities along the nation’s borders in its Area of Operations.
“Residents of Danare and adjoining areas are reassured that the situation is calm and fully under control. Troops remain vigilant and continue to monitor border activities,” praying the public to remain calm, continue their lawful activities, and refrain from spreading unverified information capable of causing unnecessary tension.
Meanwhile, the Chairman of Boki Local Government Area, Honourable Beatrice Etta Nyiam, has frowned at the incursion.
She expressed this in a statement signed by her Chief Press Secretary, Kumini Sheriff Otu-Oshibu stating that the Council received the report and concerns from her constituents.
The Chairman assured the people of Danare and the entire Boki LGA that she is fully aware of the situation and has “immediately escalated the matter to the appropriate security and government authorities for prompt attention and necessary action.”
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