The Nigerian Senate has launched an investigation into allegations by Niger’s junta leader against Nigeria, regarding claims of collusion with France to destabilize Niger. The investigation, led by Senator Umar Buba, comes amid concerns for Nigeria’s sovereignty amidst a backdrop of strained relations following Niger’s recent coup. The Senate aims to reinforce diplomatic cooperation and address these unsubstantiated allegations swiftly.
The Nigerian Senate has tasked its committees on National Security, Intelligence, and Foreign Affairs to investigate allegations made by Brig-Gen Abdourahmane Tchiani, the leader of Niger’s junta, regarding Nigeria’s involvement in destabilizing Niger. This inquiry is set to conclude within four weeks, with an objective to enhance diplomatic and security relations between the two countries. Tchiani’s accusations, reported by the News Agency of Nigeria, involved claims of Nigeria collaborating with France to undermine Niger’s sovereignty through a militia group named Lakurawa operating in Nigeria’s North-West region.
Senator Umar Buba, who sponsored the investigation motion, expressed concern over what he termed as serious and unsubstantiated allegations. Tchiani purportedly claimed that Nigeria planned to establish a base for the Lakurawa militia in Gaba, Sokoto State, affecting local states like Zamfara and Kebbi. Buba emphasized the historical relationship between Nigeria and Niger, marked by cooperation in various sectors, though he noted that ties were strained post the July 2023 coup in Niger.
Buba pointed out that Nigeria, as the Head of ECOWAS, has advocated for a return to constitutional democracy in Niger. Following earlier diplomatic efforts, he argued normalcy had begun to return before Tchiani’s unfounded assertions in December 2024. The senator mentioned that Tchiani’s accusations wrongfully implicated Nigerian officials, including National Security Adviser Malam Nuhu Ribadu and former Director-General of the National Intelligence Agency, Amb. Ahmed Rufai, who are committed to regional stability.
In response to the allegations, Ribadu categorically dismissed them as unfounded, underscoring that Nigeria has historically turned down requests for foreign military bases, whether from the US or the UK. He reiterated Nigeria’s dedication to fostering peaceful relations with its neighbors, stressing that focus should remain on eliminating common threats such as terrorism rather than engaging in conflicts between countries.
Senator Buba expressed concern that despite available diplomatic avenues for conflict resolution, Tchiani opted for public accusations that have the potential to damage Nigeria’s international reputation. He highlighted the need for condemnation of any attempt to undermine Nigeria’s sovereignty and insisted that claims should be substantiated and carefully evidenced. The motion affirms the Senate’s commitment to safeguarding Nigeria’s sovereignty while promoting peaceful cooperation with neighboring nations.
The situation stems from an ongoing geopolitical tension between Nigeria and Niger following a coup in July 2023 that ousted Niger’s democratically elected government. The current leader of the Nigerien junta, Brig-Gen Abdourahmane Tchiani, has raised allegations against Nigeria, claiming it is working with France to destabilize Niger through the creation of a militia. This backdrop sets the stage for the Senate’s decision to investigate these claims, as it reflects broader regional security dynamics and diplomatic relations.
The Nigerian Senate’s decision to investigate Tchiani’s allegations highlights the importance of maintaining stable diplomatic relations between Nigeria and Niger. By addressing these claims, the Senate aims to reaffirm Nigeria’s commitment to its sovereignty and historical ties with Niger. It emphasizes the need for facts and cooperation over baseless accusations that could further strain relations and undermine regional security efforts.
Original Source: www.pulse.ng
