ECOWAS Defends Nigeria Amid Niger's Allegations of Terrorism Sponsorship
The Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) has expressed its unwavering support for Nigeria and other member states in the face of allegations from the Niger Republic's military junta, accusing Nigeria and France of a covert military alliance aimed at destabilizing Niger.
In a statement issued on Thursday in Abuja, the regional body dismissed the claims as baseless and emphasized its commitment to regional stability.
The allegations, made by General Abdourahamane Tchiani, the military leader of Niger, surfaced in a viral video. General Tchiani accused Nigeria and France of conspiring to undermine his country’s stability following the recent military takeover.
In response, Nigeria's Minister of Information and National Orientation, Mohammed Idris, described the accusations as "unfounded and imaginary," reaffirming Nigeria’s dedication to regional efforts to restore democratic governance in Niger.
ECOWAS, in its statement, strongly refuted the claims, stating, "The Commission stands firmly with Nigeria and other ECOWAS member states against allegations that they are sponsoring terrorism."
The statement highlighted Nigeria’s longstanding commitment to peace and security across the African continent, citing the achievements of the Multinational Joint Task Force (MNJTF), which Nigeria leads.
"ECOWAS therefore refutes any suggestion that such a generous and magnanimous country would become a state-sponsor of terrorism," the statement added.
The regional bloc further urged all states in the subregion to prioritize dialogue and stability while refraining from unsubstantiated accusations that could jeopardize peace.
Comments