Natural Resources and Conflict: A Case Study of the Bakassi Peninsula Conflict

Abstract

This paper examined natural resources and conflict, using the Bakassi Peninsula conflict as a case in point. The paper is aimed at examining the role played by the availability of hydrocarbons in the 1,600-kilometre land boundary between Cameroon and Nigeria. Drawing from economic and cultural perspectives, the paper argued that even though the abundant natural resource deposits appear to be behind the squabble over the ownership of the peninsula, cultural affiliations between people of the disputed area and parts of Nigeria are contributory factors that raise critical questions. Data for the study were generated using secondary sources, and analysed qualitatively. The paper recommends, among other things, that effort should be made to reconnect the people alienated from the proceeds of the peninsula.