ECOWAS Defends Nigeria Against Niger’s Unfounded Terrorism Claims

ECOWAS refutes Niger Republic’s allegations of Nigeria sponsoring terrorism with France. It emphasizes Nigeria’s commitment to regional peace, supporting Nigeria against unfounded claims, and urging member states to avoid baseless accusations.

The Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) has publicly rejected assertions made by the Niger Republic, alleging that Nigeria and select ECOWAS nations were collaborating with France to support terrorism in Niger. In a statement issued by spokesperson Joël Ahofodji, ECOWAS termed these claims as “unfounded and unsubstantiated,” voicing strong support for Nigeria and the implicated member states.

Abdourahamane Tchiani, the military leader of Niger, had previously claimed that several West African countries, including Nigeria, were involved in a conspiracy with France to perpetrate terrorist acts against Niger. In response, ECOWAS emphasized its backing for Nigeria, underscoring the country’s longstanding commitment to maintaining peace and security not just in West Africa but across the African continent.

Moreover, ECOWAS highlighted the successes of the Multinational Joint Task Force (MNJTF), a coalition led by Nigeria aimed at combating insecurity in the region, as evidence of Nigeria’s dedication to regional stability. Thus, the organization firmly dismisses any notion that Nigeria could be implicated as a state sponsor of terrorism.

ECOWAS urged all member states to avoid baseless accusations and to foster dialogue and stability within the region. The Nigerian government echoed this sentiment, with Minister of Information Mohammed Idris labeling Tchiani’s allegations as utterly without merit and merely a product of imagination. He reinforced that Nigeria has never engaged in any collaboration to destabilize Niger.

This article addresses the ongoing tensions between the Niger Republic and Nigeria, along with other ECOWAS member states. Following a coup in Niger, military leadership has made various accusations against neighboring nations, claiming that they are collaborating with foreign powers, specifically France, to undermine Niger’s stability. These claims have sparked criticism and concern within the regional community, prompting ECOWAS to publicly defend Nigeria and seek to quell these accusations to maintain regional harmony and security.

In summary, ECOWAS has firmly rejected the recent allegations made by the Niger Republic regarding Nigeria’s involvement in terrorism alongside France. The organization has expressed unequivocal support for Nigeria, highlighting its track record in promoting regional peace and security. Both ECOWAS and the Nigerian government continue to advocate for constructive dialogue and refute accusations lacking any substantial evidence.

Original Source: businessday.ng