ICJ rules in favour of Equatorial Guinea in Island dispute with Gabon

The International Court of Justice (ICJ) has settled a decades-long dispute between Equatorial Guinea and Gabon over three uninhabited islands—Conga, Mbanié, and Cocoteros—in oil-rich waters. The court upheld Equatorial Guinea’s claim, citing a 1900 colonial treaty, and dismissed Gabon’s argument based on a 1974 agreement.

The ruling, which is final and binding, confirms the islands were under Spanish control before passing to Equatorial Guinea at independence in 1968.

Gabon, which occupied Mbanié in 1972, must now withdraw its troops.

Tensions flared in the 2000s when oil exploration in the Gulf of Guinea intensified. After years of UN mediation, both nations agreed to ICJ arbitration in 2016.

Gabon’s presidency acknowledged the verdict, stating both countries must negotiate future relations. « We have to live side-by-side, » said spokesperson Guy Rossatanga-Rignault.

Both nations, facing declining oil output due to aging wells and underinvestment, may now seek joint development of the contested waters.

The ruling brings legal closure but leaves economic cooperation as the next challenge.