The Ambazonia rebels fighting for independence in South West Cameroon have reportedly invaded the Okwa community in Cross River State, Nigeria, raising concerns about national security and border integrity.
The latest incident comes on the heels of a similar attack on the neighbouring Belegete community just two weeks ago, where over 40 people were abducted, a chief was killed, and homes were burned.
This incursion marks a concerning development as Okwa lies along the border with South West Cameroon, nestled within the Gorilla Protection Unit of the Okwangwo Division of the Cross River National Park.
The recent invasion follows the rebels’ seizure of the Belegete community in Obanliku LGA, a neighbouring area to Okwa. During the Belegete incursion, the rebels abducted over 40 locals, tragically killed Chief Francis Okweshi, assaulted women, set homes ablaze, and maintained occupation for over a week.
Victor Abang, the House of Representatives member representing the Ikom/Boki federal constituency, confirmed the invasion in a statement signed by his media aide, Simon Abang.
Expressing deep concern over the escalating security situation along the national boundary, Abang emphasized the urgent need to halt the continued invasion of parts of the state.
He highlighted the severity of the threat posed by the bandits, pointing out the repeated incursions of Cameroonian terrorists into the Boki LGA. Abang referenced the recent invasion on December 17, 2023, citing the rebels’ panic-inducing tactics through indiscriminate firing, threats, and the imposition of restrictions on locals accessing their farmlands without justification.
Referring to the unfortunate execution of Chief Ogweshi Francis Ongwele in the nearby Belegette community and the resulting chaos, Abang underscored the necessity to end such atrocities.
The invasion has created a climate of fear, leading villagers to abandon their homes and seek refuge in neighbouring communities, exacerbating the plight of those living in borderlands.
Abang urged President Bola Tinubu, in his capacity as the Commander-in-Chief of the Armed Forces, to deploy military forces to Okwa.
He stressed the crucial role of safeguarding Nigerian territorial integrity and securing the lives of citizens in the area.
He additionally stressed the necessity of initiating diplomatic engagements with Cameroon for a peaceful resolution of the security challenges, underscoring the significance of prompt action to avert further risks to the lives and livelihoods of Nigerians residing in border communities neighbouring Cameroon.
He said, “Additionally, diplomatic efforts must be initiated with Cameroon for a peaceful resolution of the security challenges,” he said.
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