The Nigerian Senate is investigating allegations by Niger’s leader, Brig-Gen Tchiani, that Nigeria conspired with France to destabilize Niger using a militia named Lakurawa. Senator Umar Buba emphasized the unfounded nature of the claims and expressed concerns over their impact on Nigeria’s sovereignty and reputation. The Senate aims to reinforce diplomatic ties and address these serious allegations within four weeks.
The Nigerian Senate has tasked its committees on National Security, Intelligence, and Foreign Affairs to investigate allegations made by Niger’s Head of State, Brigadier General Abdourahmane Tchiani, against Nigeria. The investigation is to be completed within four weeks and aims to employ diplomatic and security measures to restore relations between Nigeria and the Niger Republic.
This decision from the Senate followed a motion put forth by Tchiani, who claimed that Nigeria was involved in actions undermining the sovereignty of Niger. According to reports, Tchiani asserted that Nigeria was collaborating with France to destabilize Niger through a militia group known as Lakurawa, which is reportedly active in Nigeria’s North-West region.
Senator Umar Buba (PDP-Bauchi), who sponsored the motion, expressed his concern regarding what he termed serious yet unfounded allegations from the Nigerien leader. He claimed Tchiani’s allegations included plans to establish a base for Lakurawa in a forest near Gaba, Sokoto State, with operational capabilities extending to the Nigerian states of Sokoto, Zamfara, and Kebbi.
Buba emphasized the long-standing cordial relationship between Nigeria and Niger, built on mutual cooperation across various sectors, including security and trade. However, he noted that these relations had soured following the coup in Niger on July 26, 2023, which affected constitutional governance there, and consequently led to rising tensions.
The senator mentioned Nigeria’s role as Head of the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) in advocating for the restoration of constitutional democracy in Niger. He pointed out that diplomatic normalcy was restoring until Tchiani’s allegations surfaced, further complicating the situation.
Buba expressed concerns that Tchiani improperly implicated Nigerian officials, including National Security Adviser Malam Nuhu Ribadu and former Director-General of the National Intelligence Agency Ambassador Ahmed Rufai. He conveyed that both officials have made significant efforts to promote peace and stability in the region in line with Nigeria’s security policies.
In response to the allegations, National Security Adviser Ribadu rejected the claims, asserting that Nigeria has never permitted foreign military installations on its territory and has rebuffed such requests in the past. He reiterated Nigeria’s intent to maintain amicable relations with its neighboring countries while urging focus on shared threats such as terrorist groups.
The article discusses recent allegations made by Niger’s military leader against Nigeria amidst a backdrop of historical cooperation between the two nations. It highlights the strained diplomatic relations resulting from a coup in Niger and Nigeria’s efforts within ECOWAS to restore constitutional order. The text outlines the implications of these accusations for Nigeria’s national security and international image, emphasizing the need for diplomatic dialogue and investigation of the allegations against Nigerian officials.
In conclusion, the Senate of Nigeria is performing a critical investigation into the allegations made by Niger’s Head of State, reflecting the seriousness with which Nigeria regards its sovereignty and bilateral relations. The situation illustrates the delicate balance in West African politics, especially after military interventions. Engagement through established diplomatic channels remains essential to resolving tensions and fostering peaceful coexistence in the region.
Original Source: www.pulse.ng
