The Nigerian Senate is investigating allegations by Niger’s General Tchiani accusing Nigeria of colluding with France to destabilize Niger. This follows claims of Nigerian support for terrorist activities in Niger, which the Senate regards as damaging to its international relations. The inquiry will assess militia bases in Nigerian states implicated by Tchiani’s accusations.
The Nigerian Senate has begun an inquiry into serious claims made by General Abdourahmane Tchiani, the military leader of Niger Republic. He has accused the Nigerian government of collaborating with France to undermine Niger’s internal security. To address these allegations, the Senate has designated its Joint Committees on National Security and Intelligence, along with Foreign Affairs, to visit Sokoto, Zamfara, and Kebbi States for verification of suspected militia bases.
The motion prompting this investigation was led by Senator Shehu Buba, the Chairman of the Senate Committee on National Security and Intelligence. During the session, Senator Buba highlighted the erroneous implications involving Nigeria’s National Security Adviser, Nuhu Ribadu, and former National Intelligence Agency Director-General, Ahmed Rufai, in Tchiani’s conspiracy accusations, which he deemed unfounded.
Tchiani’s assertions claim that the Nigerian government is supporting a terrorist group named Lakurawa, which purportedly operates in North-West Nigeria. He further alleged that Nigerian military bases are being misused to target Niger’s oil pipelines, exacerbating security problems in Niger. The Senate expressed serious concern that these baseless claims might jeopardize Nigeria’s international relations.
Senator Buba reflected on the gradual normalization of relations between Nigeria and Niger, particularly after the coup in Niger in July 2023, noting that the latest accusations could affect diplomatic efforts. He emphasized that the current situation needs scrutiny and that any attempts undermining Nigeria’s sovereignty must be actively repudiated, particularly when no substantial evidence supports such claims.
In reaction to Tchiani’s allegations, Deputy Senate President Senator Barau Jibrin directed the responsible committees to conduct thorough investigations and report findings within four weeks. This inquiry underscores the importance of validating serious claims that could potentially damage Nigeria’s standing internationally and its relations within the regional geopolitical landscape.
The accusations from General Tchiani of Niger highlight ongoing tensions between Niger and Nigeria, particularly in the context of regional security and diplomacy. The military rule in Niger alongside the historical context of cooperation and conflict in the Sahel underscores the complexities of these allegations. The Nigerian Senate’s proactive stance shows an effort to uphold national security and international relations amidst increasing scrutiny and accusations against its government.
The investigation initiated by the Nigerian Senate into allegations made by Niger’s General Tchiani underscores serious geopolitical concerns. The Senate’s commitment to dispel unfounded claims reflects the importance of maintaining Nigeria’s sovereignty and international standing. As tensions rise, the outcome of this investigation may significantly influence future diplomatic relations between Nigeria and Niger.
Original Source: newscentral.africa
