Cameroonian Troops Spark Tension in C'River Community
By Ekanem Asuquo
An atmosphere of fear and uncertainty has enveloped Danare Community in Boki Local Government Area of Cross River State following the reported incursion of more than 200 armed Cameroonian soldiers into the Nigerian border settlement.
Community sources said the development triggered anxiety among residents, who expressed concerns over the presence of foreign troops within Nigerian territory and its potential implications for security in the area.
The development, which reportedly occurred without prior notification to local authorities, has heightened tension in the community and raised fresh questions about security along the Nigeria Cameroon border.
Several residents described the incident as an unauthorized incursion and called on the Federal Government to urgently investigate the circumstances surrounding the troop movement.
The reported crossing has also renewed concerns about the protection of Nigeria's territorial boundaries, especially in border communities where residents maintain close cultural and economic ties with neighbouring settlements in Cameroon.
Stakeholders and security observers warned that repeated incidents of unauthorized military movements across the border could undermine bilateral relations and create unnecessary tension between the two countries.
They urged Nigerian security agencies to strengthen border monitoring mechanisms while encouraging closer collaboration between authorities in both nations to prevent similar occurrences.
Although Danare has long enjoyed peaceful interactions with neighbouring Cameroonian communities, residents insist that any military operation involving foreign troops within Nigerian territory must adhere strictly to established diplomatic and security procedures.
As of press time, neither Nigerian security agencies nor Cameroonian authorities had issued an official statement on the reported incident.
Community leaders have appealed for swift government intervention to calm fears among residents and ensure the continued security of the border area.
