Nigeria Denies Niger’s Allegations of Conspiracy with France to Destabilize Region
Nigeria’s government has rejected claims by Niger’s junta of collusion with France to destabilize Niger, calling the allegations baseless and strategically manipulative. Minister Idris stated that Nigeria does not engage in such conspiracies, while military leaders affirmed a commitment to national sovereignty. These accusations are viewed as signs of panic within Niger’s leadership amid escalating domestic unrest.
The Nigerian federal government has strongly dismissed allegations from the Nigerien junta, specifically General Abdourahamane Tchiani, accusing Nigeria of collaborating with France to destabilize Niger. In a statement released Thursday evening, Minister of Information and National Orientation, Mohammed Idris, branded the accusations as baseless and a manipulative tactic aimed at coercing Nigeria due to its commitment to the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) regarding the unconstitutional power shift in Niger. Idris emphasized that Nigeria maintains no hostile intentions or partnerships with France to undermine Niger, urging that the claims originate from the imaginations of Niger’s leadership.
Chief of Defence Staff, General Christopher Musa, reinforced Nigeria’s stance by stating that the military will not consent to the establishment of foreign military bases within its borders. Musa condemned any collaborations with terrorist groups and expressed concern over ongoing criminal activities. Furthermore, former presidential spokesperson Reno Omokri characterized Tchiani’s remarks as reflective of an underlying panic within his administration amidst rising domestic unrest. He equated Tchiani’s situation to that of Syrian President Bashar al-Assad, noting his desperation for external validation and scapegoats.
Minister Idris further clarified Nigeria’s dedication to regional stability and cooperative efforts with Niger, citing ongoing projects that promote mutual economic development. He categorically rejected allegations about foreign military operations or collaborations aimed at undermining Niger’s security, reminding that Nigeria has a robust record in counteracting regional terrorism. The Minister called for Niger to engage in meaningful dialogue, rather than propagating unsubstantiated claims, underscoring Nigeria’s firm commitment to the principles of sovereignty and territorial integrity.
The recent tensions between Nigeria and Niger stem from a series of political developments following the coup in Niger, which saw the government of President Mohamed Bazoum ousted. The actions of the Nigerien military junta have been met with condemnation from ECOWAS, which has sought to uphold democratic governance in the region. Allegations of foreign collusion in destabilizing Niger serve as a profound reflection of the junta’s attempts to divert attention from its own governance challenges while reinforcing nationalistic sentiments among its constituents.
In conclusion, Nigeria has firmly rebutted the Nigerien military junta’s allegations of collusion with France, portraying the claims as unfounded and a strategic diversion from the internal challenges facing Niger. The Nigerian government remains committed to regional stability and cooperation, as evidenced by ongoing collaborative projects. Both the Minister of Information and the Chief of Defence Staff emphasize Nigeria’s resolve to protect its sovereignty while actively combating terrorism in the region, dismissing any notion of engagement with foreign powers aimed at destabilization.
Original Source: www.arise.tv
