France has rejected claims from Niger that Nigeria has provided a base for destabilizing Niger, calling the statements groundless. The Nigerian government reinforced this denial, emphasizing the historic cordiality between the nations. Regional security challenges necessitate cooperation with multiple global powers to effectively manage the situation, particularly concerning issues arising from Libya’s instability.
On Wednesday, France firmly rejected accusations from Niger Republic claiming that Nigeria had provided a base for France to destabilize Niger. The assertion was made by General Abdourahamane Tchiani, the leader of Niger’s military junta, during an interview in which he insinuated that collusion existed between France and Nigeria aimed at undermining Niger. Tchiani accused France of attempting to orchestrate instability through negotiations with terrorist factions in Nigeria and alleged that significant payments had been made to Nigerian President Bola Tinubu to establish military operations within Nigeria.
In response to these allegations, Mr. Bertrand de Seissan, the French political counsellor at the Embassy of France in Nigeria, categorically stated, “This allegation is groundless. This has never been discussed, nor even suggested by either France or Nigeria.” The Nigerian government echoed this sentiment, labeling the claims as unfounded and expressing grave concern regarding the implications of such statements.
A spokesperson for Nigeria’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs asserted, “There are no French military troops in the northern part of the country preparing to destabilise the Government of Niger.” The ministry emphasized the historical cordial relationship between Nigeria and France, founded on principles of mutual respect and non-interference. Ambassador Yusuf Tuggar, Nigeria’s Minister of Foreign Affairs, further reiterated that maintaining a relationship with France is not only vital but essential for addressing regional security challenges, which involve multiple global powers, including the United States and Russia.
The Minister noted, “We cannot tackle the issue of insecurity in our region simply by a partnership or by being friends with the Sahelian countries.” Addressing security in the region requires a cooperative alliance with various influential nations given the complexities stemming from armed groups in neighbouring Libya.
French President Emmanuel Macron, at a foreign policy conference in Paris, dismissed claims that France was being ousted from the Sahel region, characterizing the leadership in Sahelian nations as ungrateful and suggesting a shift in focus among their citizens away from fighting terrorism.
With rising tensions between Niger and its neighboring countries, the international community remains vigilant regarding the unfolding situation. Clarification and diplomatic engagement appear crucial to maintaining stability in West Africa.
The recent allegations made by Niger’s military leader against France and Nigeria signal heightened tensions in the West African region. The accusations of collusion between the nations to destabilize Niger have surfaced amid broader concerns regarding security and terrorism in the Sahel area. Following a series of coups in the region, accusations of foreign intervention often arise, complicating diplomatic relations. In this context, both countries have emphasized the importance of maintaining a peaceful and respectful relationship while jointly addressing security threats.
In conclusion, the allegations made by Niger’s military junta against both France and Nigeria have been categorically denied by the concerned parties. Both nations reaffirmed their commitment to a respectful partnership aimed at addressing significant security challenges. As regional instability continues to pose threats, diplomatic dialogue remains critical in fostering a collaborative approach to counterterrorism and ensuring regional stability.
Original Source: punchng.com
