Accusations from Niger’s Military Leadership
Niger Republic’s military leader, General Abdourahamane Tchiani, has accused Nigeria of conspiring with France to destabilize his country. Tchiani accused Nigeria of enabling foreign interference and providing a base for activities threatening Niger’s security. He alleged Nigeria supported terrorism and sabotaged critical infrastructure, including agriculture and pipelines.
Nigeria Labels Claims as Baseless
The Nigerian government has categorically denied these accusations, describing them as “absurd and unfounded.” In a statement on Thursday, the Minister of Information and National Orientation, Mohammed Idris, said, “Nigeria has not, at any point, collaborated with France or any other country to destabilize Niger Republic. These allegations are diversionary and lack any factual basis.”
Idris emphasized Nigeria’s efforts to maintain peace and stability in the region, highlighting President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s leadership as Chairman of ECOWAS in addressing the crisis in Niger following the July 2023 coup.
Commitment to Regional Stability
Nigeria emphasized its leadership in combating terrorism and promoting security through active participation in regional initiatives like the MNJTF. Nigerian forces spearhead counter-terrorism operations, enhancing security in the Lake Chad Basin and other unstable areas.
“It contradicts logic to claim Nigeria, leading anti-terrorism efforts, would engage in actions destabilizing its neighbor,” Idris asserted.
Rebuttal to Territorial Allegations
Responding to Tchiani’s claims of foreign bases operating in Sokoto State, the government dismissed the accusations as fabricated. Idris reiterated that Nigeria has not ceded its territory to any foreign power or supported any activities contrary to Niger’s stability. He pointed to recent successes, such as Operation Forest Sanity III, which dismantled terrorist strongholds in the region.
Economic Cooperation as Evidence of Goodwill
The Nigerian government also addressed allegations of economic sabotage, emphasizing its support for Niger’s development through joint projects like the Kano-Maradi Railway and the Trans-Saharan Gas Pipeline. “These projects reflect Nigeria’s commitment to strengthening economic ties, not undermining them,” the statement read.
The government highlighted the absurdity of sabotaging initiatives it has championed and invested in, reaffirming its dedication to fostering mutual growth and stability.
Challenge to Provide Evidence
\Nigeria concluded its response by challenging General Tchiani to present credible evidence supporting his claims. The government described the accusations as an attempt to shift focus from internal challenges in Niger and urged Tchiani to prioritize the welfare of his citizens.
“These baseless claims serve only to distract from pressing issues in Niger,” Idris said. “Nigeria will remain steadfast in its commitment to peace, unity, and constitutional governance in the region.”
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