ABUJA, Nigeria — A Nigerian lawmaker has condemned the reported entry of armed Cameroonian soldiers into Danare community in Cross River State, describing it as a direct affront to Nigeria’s sovereignty.
Victor Abang, who represents Boki/Ikom Federal Constituency, said the incursion into the border community in Boki Local Government Area triggered panic among residents and must not be tolerated. “Nigeria’s territorial integrity remains inviolable. The presence of armed foreign troops on our soil without authorization is a direct affront to our sovereignty. This cannot continue,” Abang said in a statement.
He warned that repeated border breaches pose serious risks to communities and could strain decades of cordial relations between Nigeria and Cameroon. Abang noted that persistent boundary disputes also endanger livelihoods of residents who rely on peaceful cross‑border trade and farming. He commended Danare residents for remaining calm, saying their restraint helped avert escalation.
The lawmaker urged the federal government to take immediate diplomatic steps to engage Cameroonian authorities and resolve outstanding boundary issues. He called on the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, the National Boundary Commission, and security agencies to investigate the latest incursion and strengthen protection for border communities.
The incident has sparked reactions across social media. One user wrote: “This is unacceptable. Nigeria must defend its borders with firmness.” Another commented: “Border communities deserve better protection. They live in fear every time foreign troops cross over.”
Social commentators also weighed in. Political analyst Dr. Ayo Olumide said: “This is not just a local issue. It touches on Nigeria’s credibility in regional diplomacy. Abuja must respond decisively.”
Policy makers echoed the concern. A senior official in the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, speaking on condition of anonymity, said: “We are engaging our Cameroonian counterparts. Nigeria will not allow its sovereignty to be undermined.”
Stakeholders in border development stressed the economic impact. A representative of the Cross River Chamber of Commerce said: “Every time there is tension, farmers and traders suffer. Stability at the border is essential for livelihoods.”
The incident underscores the fragile nature of Nigeria‑Cameroon relations, where unresolved boundary disputes have occasionally flared into tension despite long‑standing cooperation agreements.
