The Nigerian Army has confirmed that an unauthorized incursion by personnel of the Cameroonian Armed Forces into Danare Community in Boki Local Government Area of Cross River State has been brought under control following swift military and diplomatic intervention.
The incident, which occurred on June 9, prompted immediate action by troops of the Nigerian Army deployed at the Forward Operating Base in Danare after reports emerged of the presence of foreign troops within Nigerian territory.
In a statement issued by the Acting Deputy Director, Army Public Relations, 82 Division, Lt.-Col. Olabisi Olalekan Ayeni, the Army said its troops promptly established contact with appropriate Cameroonian military authorities, leading to the withdrawal of the foreign troops in accordance with established border protocols.
The Army said the situation was contained without escalation and normalcy had since returned to the area.
Preliminary investigations revealed that the incident stemmed from a dispute over the collection of levies on farmland located along the border between Danare Community in Nigeria and Dadi Community in Cameroon.
To forestall future occurrences, the General Officer Commanding (GOC) 82 Division has directed the Commander of 13 Brigade to engage his Cameroonian counterpart in further discussions aimed at strengthening border coordination and clarifying operational procedures along the international boundary.
The Army described the engagement as part of ongoing diplomatic and military cooperation between both countries and a confidence-building measure designed to enhance security and stability in border communities.
The 82 Division reassured residents of Danare and neighboring communities that the situation remains calm and fully under control, noting that troops have remained vigilant and continue to monitor activities along the border.
The Army also urged members of the public to remain peaceful, go about their lawful activities, and avoid spreading unverified information capable of causing unnecessary tension.
