ECOWAS Defends Nigeria Against Niger’s Terrorism Accusations

Niger Republic had accused Nigeria and other ECOWAS members of colluding with France to destabilise the country.

However, ECOWAS in a statement on Thursday described the allegations as “unfounded”.

“The Commission of the Economic and West African States (ECOWAS) expresses deep concern over allegations being made against Nigeria and other ECOWAS member states.

“The Commission stands firmly by Nigeria and ECOWAS member states against allegations that they are sponsoring terrorism.

“For years, Nigeria has supported the peace and security of several countries not only in the West African subregion but also on the African continent.

“The recent successes recorded by the Multinational Joint Task Force (MNJTF), which Nigeria leads, demonstrate the country’s commitment to peace and security across the region.

“ECOWAS therefore, refutes any suggestion that such a generous and magnanimous country would become a state-sponsor of terrorism,” the statement read in part.

ECOWAS then called on all states in the region to promote dialogue and stability and refrain from making accusations that are not supported by any evidence.

The federal government also denied Niger Republic’s allegation.

The Minister of Information and National Orientation, Mohammed Idris, made the rebuttal in a statement, amid claims by Niger Republic’s military leader, General Abdourahamane Tchiani, that Nigeria was working with France against his country.

The minister also debunked accusations that Nigeria was sabotaging Niger’s pipelines and agriculture.

He cited Nigeria’s active role in supporting Niger’s economic development through initiatives such as the Trans-Saharan Gas Pipeline and the Kano-Maradi Railway Project.

Mr Idris also urged the public to disregard Tchiani’s allegations and urged him to provide credible evidence to support his claims.

In November, President Tinubu made a state visit to France to strengthen political, economic, and cultural relations with the country.

Analysts see the visit as part of France’s search for new African allies as its influence in West Africa has waned in recent years after former colonies like Mali, Burkina Faso, and Niger have severed military ties with France, forging partnerships with Russia.