Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) has voiced its support for Nigeria amidst allegations of terrorism raised by the neighboring Niger Republic.
Gatekeepers News reports that Abdourahamane Tchiani, the military leader of Niger, has accused France of negotiating with terrorists in Nigeria to destabilise his country.
In response to these allegations, Mohammed Idris, Nigeria’s Minister of Information and National Orientation, issued a statement denying the claims. He emphasised that, despite the strained relationship between Nigeria and Niger following Niger’s military coup, President Bola Tinubu, currently serving as the ECOWAS chairman, remains open to dialogue.
Idris further labeled the idea that Nigeria would collaborate with any foreign entity to compromise the security of a neighboring nation as absurd.
On Thursday evening, ECOWAS released a statement expressing “deep concern” over the accusations made by Niger.
The organisation characterised these allegations as unfounded, asserting that Nigeria, described as a “generous and magnanimous country,” would not engage in acts of state-sponsored terrorism.
“For years, Nigeria has supported peace and security of several countries not only in the West African subregion but also on the African continent,” the statement added.
“The recent successes recorded by the Multinational Joint Task Force (MNJTF), which Nigeria leads, demonstrates the country’s commitment to peace and security across the region.”
ECOWAS also reaffirmed its support for other member countries.
Niger, Burkina Faso, and Mali have withdrawn from the bloc after rejecting support from France and looking towards Russia for assistance in combating terrorism.
During the recent ECOWAS summit involving heads of states and governments, the bloc announced that these three countries would face permanent exclusion next year, although a six-month negotiation period has been established to address the tensions.
ECOWAS urged all member states to prioritise dialogue and stability, encouraging a refrain from accusations that lack substantiating evidence.
