FG refutes allegations of plotting to destabilise Nigerien govt

The Federal Government of Nigeria has strongly refuted allegations by Nigerien authorities that the Lakurawa terrorist group, allegedly aided by foreign security forces, including Nigerian security personnel, was responsible for the attack on the Niger-Benin oil pipeline on December 13, 2024, in Gaya, Dosso Region of the Niger Republic.

In a statement issued by the Acting Spokesperson of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Kimiebi Imomotimi Ebienfa, the Government of Nigeria expressed condolences to the Government of Niger over the unfortunate pipeline attack. However, it emphasized that the perpetrators were neither supported nor assisted by Nigerian authorities.

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“The Government of Nigeria is firmly committed to the fight against terrorism and will neither condone nor support the activities of such groups,” the statement read.

Additionally, the Federal Government dismissed claims of French military troops being present in northern Nigeria with the intent to destabilize the Government of Niger. “These allegations are baseless and should be disregarded entirely,” the statement declared.

The Government also reaffirmed the longstanding cordial relationship between Nigeria and France, highlighting that it is based on mutual respect, dignity, and non-interference in each other’s internal affairs. “Nigeria will continue to pursue peaceful means to maintain its cordial relationship with the Republic of Niger for the benefit of the people of both countries,” the statement concluded.