The 82 Division of the Nigerian Army says it has successfully de-escalated tensions following the reported incursion of Cameroonian armed forces into Danare Community in Boki Local Government Area of Cross River State.
In a statement issued in Enugu on Thursday, the Acting Deputy Director, Army Public Relations, Lt.-Col. Olabisi Ayeni, said the situation was swiftly brought under control after Nigerian troops stationed at the Forward Operating Base in Danare responded to reports of the foreign military presence.
According to Ayeni, Nigerian forces immediately engaged the appropriate Cameroonian military authorities, leading to the withdrawal of the troops from Nigerian territory in accordance with established border protocols.
“Troops of the Nigerian Army deployed at the Forward Operating Base Danare, upon receiving reports of foreign military presence, promptly responded and contacted appropriate Cameroonian Armed Forces authority.
“This led to the withdrawal of Cameroonian troops from Nigerian territory in line with established border protocols.
“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),” he said.
Ayeni added that the General Officer Commanding 82 Division had directed the Commander of 13 Brigade to meet with his Cameroonian counterpart as part of ongoing diplomatic and military cooperation aimed at strengthening border coordination and preventing similar incidents.
He said the Nigerian Army remains committed to protecting the country’s territorial integrity and ensuring the safety of border communities.
“Residents of Danare and adjoining areas are reassured that the situation is calm and fully under control.
“Troops remain vigilant and will continue to monitor border activities.
“Members of the public are urged to remain calm, continue their lawful activities, and refrain from spreading unverified information capable of causing unnecessary tension.” :::
