Residents of Danare community in Boki Local Government Area of Cross River State were thrown into panic on Wednesday morning following the alleged entry of more than 200 Cameroonian military personnel into Nigerian territory without clearance.
A community resident, Mary (surname withheld), said the troops crossed the international boundary without following established protocols, triggering fear among inhabitants of the border settlement.
The situation reportedly caused tension in the community, with families remaining indoors as the armed personnel moved through the area, raising safety and sovereignty concerns.
The incident was later de-escalated through the intervention of Mr. Kingsley Mbia, a former Vice Chairman of Boki Local Government Area, who, alongside some local youths, engaged the soldiers and opened dialogue to prevent further escalation.
Mbia reportedly warned the troops that entering Nigerian territory without authorisation violated international law and bilateral border agreements, stressing the importance of respecting Nigeria’s sovereignty and maintaining diplomatic protocols.
He noted that such actions could undermine trust between both countries and urged restraint while the matter was being addressed.
Former member representing Boki State Constituency in the Cross River State House of Assembly, Mr. Cletus Obun, confirmed the incident, saying it occurred a short distance from the Catholic Church in Danare 1, along the road to Budam.
Obun alleged that Cameroonian soldiers fired warning shots to disperse youths who attempted to block their movement, describing the development as a serious security concern and crediting local vigilance for preventing further escalation.
He further stated that Cameroon had rejected the UN-ordered boundary demarcation and was seeking a review of Pillar 113A before accepting the border arrangement, while also faulting Nigerian authorities for what he described as inadequate security presence along the axis.
Meanwhile, the Nigerian Army’s 13 Brigade Public Relations Officer, Major Yemi Shokoya, confirmed awareness of the incident, saying arrangements were underway for an appropriate response.
The Chairman of Boki Local Government Area, Mrs. Beatrice Etta Nyiam, said she had been briefed on the situation and had reported the matter to relevant security and government authorities for urgent attention.
She urged residents to remain calm, law-abiding, and avoid actions that could escalate tensions, while assuring them of the government’s commitment to protecting lives, property, and territorial integrity.
Nyiam also said the Council would continue to work closely with security agencies to ensure the issue is addressed and lasting peace is maintained in the border community, commending residents for providing timely information.
