NIGER’S MILITARY LEADER ACCUSES NIGERIA OF COLLUSION WITH FRANCE TO DESTABILIZE NIGER REPUBLIC
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Nicolas Adekeye / 4 weeks
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- 2 min read
A diplomatic row has erupted between Nigeria and Niger Republic after General Abdourahamane Tchiani, Niger’s military leader, made explosive allegations against the Nigerian government. In an interview with Radio-Télévision du Niger, Tchiani claimed that President Bola Ahmed Tinubu is secretly collaborating with France to destabilize Niger Republic. Tchiani alleged that France had promised financial support to Tinubu in exchange for allowing French military operations in Borno State. He challenged President Tinubu to disclose the amount of money he received from France, warning that “there will be a day of reckoning” if he fails to do so. The Nigerien military leader also criticized the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) as a puppet of French interests, claiming that leaders from member countries seek funding from France for electoral support. Nigeria’s Minister of Information, Mohammed Idris, swiftly dismissed Tchiani’s allegations as “baseless and unfounded.” Idris emphasized that Nigeria has never engaged in any alliance with France to sponsor terrorism or undermine Niger, and assured that Nigeria remains committed to maintaining peaceful relations with Niger and combating terrorism in the region. The allegations come amid existing tensions between the two countries, with Nigerien authorities previously accusing Nigeria of aiding terrorist groups in the region. Nigeria has denied these claims, reiterating its commitment to regional stability and cooperation. General Tchiani also alleged that French military personnel are present in various locations in Niger and accused France of arming Boko Haram fighters in the Lake Chad region. He claimed that these actions are part of a broader conspiracy against Niger. The League of Northern Democrats in Nigeria has called for an investigation by the National Assembly to address the claims and restore public trust. They emphasized the need for transparency, especially given the historical context of terrorism in Northern Nigeria. As tensions rise between Nigeria and Niger, both sides are urging a focus on dialogue rather than accusations. The situation remains delicate, with far-reaching implications for regional stability and cooperation.