General Abdourahamane Tchiani, the military leader of Niger, has leveled serious allegations against the Nigerian government, claiming that President Bola Ahmed Tinubu is collaborating with France to destabilize Niger Republic. Tchiani made these accusations during an interview with Radio-Télévision du Niger, stating that France promised financial support to Tinubu in exchange for ceding territory in Borno State for French military operations.
Tchiani asserted, “President Tinubu should come out and tell Nigerians how much he collected from France. If he refuses, there will be a day of reckoning.” He criticized the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) as a puppet of French interests, alleging that leaders from member countries seek funding from France for electoral support.
In response to the allegations, Nigeria’s Minister of Information, Mohammed Idris, dismissed Tchiani’s claims as baseless and unfounded. He emphasized that Nigeria has never engaged in any alliance with France to sponsor terrorism or undermine Niger. Idris assured that Nigeria remains committed to maintaining peaceful relations with Niger and has been actively combating terrorism in the region.
Earlier, Nigerien authorities accused the Lakurawa terrorist group, allegedly aided by foreign security forces, including Nigeria, of attacking the Niger-Benin oil pipeline. The Nigerian Ministry of Foreign Affairs refuted these claims, reiterating Nigeria’s commitment to regional stability and cooperation.
Tchiani also alleged that French military personnel were present in various locations in Niger and accused France of arming Boko Haram fighters in the Lake Chad region. He claimed that these actions were part of a broader conspiracy against Niger.
In light of these serious accusations, 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, the situation remains delicate, with both sides urging a focus on dialogue rather than accusations.
