Explosive Allegation: Niger’s Tchiani Claims Nigeria Compromised Terror Plot, Nigeria Refute Allegations

Niger’s Tchiani Claims Nigeria Compromised Terror Plot

The military president of Niger, Abdourahamane Tchiani, has alleged that Nigeria ignored critical intelligence on a growing terrorist threat. He claimed this negligence allowed the Lakurawa group to expand its reach across the region.

In an interview broadcast on Niger Television and monitored by TRT TV, Tchiani accused Nigerian authorities of failing to act on intelligence regarding a reported terrorist plot linked to France.

According to him, the French government conspired to establish a terror camp in Sokoto State, an allegation he said was confirmed by arrested members of the Lakurawa group.

“We arrested some top leaders of the Lakurawa terrorist group,” Tchiani stated. “They revealed a plot by the French government to set up a camp in a village called Gaba in Sokoto State.”

The leader claimed he shared this intelligence with Nigerian authorities, urging them to act. However, he alleged that no concrete measures were taken, resulting in what he described as “an increased risk to regional security.”

Tchiani’s statement has sparked widespread reaction in both Niger and Nigeria, with analysts debating the implications of the allegations. Experts warn that such accusations could strain diplomatic relations between the two West African nations at a time when unity is crucial for combating terrorism.

A senior security analyst based in Abuja, Dr. Akinwale Olaniyan, described the claims as “a significant development that requires immediate investigation.” He noted that any failure to act on shared intelligence would be a serious lapse in regional counterterrorism efforts.

However, a source within the Nigerian security apparatus, who spoke on condition of anonymity, dismissed the allegations as “unfounded and politically motivated.”

Meanwhile, the French government has yet to respond to the accusations. Observers are keenly watching to see if France or other international stakeholders will address the claims in the coming days.

Tchiani’s comments add to an already tense relationship between Niger and France following the military coup in Niger earlier this year. The West African nation has since sought to distance itself from its former colonial ruler, a move that has garnered both support and criticism domestically and internationally.

As the situation unfolds, regional and international organisations, including ECOWAS and the African Union, are being urged to mediate to prevent further escalation. Terrorism experts emphasise the importance of intelligence-sharing and collaborative action among West African nations to ensure the safety and stability of the region.

Response of the Nigerian Government to Niger’s Allegations

The Nigerian government has strongly refuted allegations made by Niger’s military junta leader, General Abdourahamane Tchiani, who accused Nigeria of colluding with France to destabilise his country. The accusations were dismissed as baseless by the National Security Adviser (NSA), Mallam Nuhu Ribadu, and other government representatives, who emphasised Nigeria’s commitment to peaceful coexistence and regional stability.

Key Points of the Government’s Response

1. Denial of Allegations
   • Ribadu rejected Tchiani’s claims, describing them as “unfounded and implausible.”
   • He clarified that Nigeria has no foreign military bases on its soil and has historically resisted such requests, including the U.S.’s attempts to establish AFRICOM in Nigeria.
   • He stated that Nigeria’s relationship with France is rooted in economic cooperation rather than military collaboration.
2. Call for Cooperation
   • Ribadu urged Niger’s leadership to focus on addressing mutual security threats, such as terrorism, which affect both nations.
   • He reaffirmed Nigeria’s intention to maintain diplomatic relations with Niger and other international partners, including France, Russia, the United States, and the United Kingdom.
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3. Support from ECOWAS
   • The Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) dismissed the allegations as baseless, reiterating Nigeria’s role as a regional leader in peacekeeping and counterterrorism.
   • ECOWAS called on Niger to avoid making unsubstantiated claims and instead work towards dialogue and stability.
4. Condemnation by Arewa Think Tank (ATT)
   • The ATT accused desperate politicians of fuelling the allegations for political gain, warning against actions that could destabilise Nigeria’s relationship with Niger.
   • They highlighted Nigeria’s consistent efforts to support Niger’s development through joint energy and infrastructure projects.
5. Presidency’s Reaction
   • The presidency, through special adviser Daniel Bwala, criticised Tchiani’s use of inflammatory rhetoric, especially his choice of the Hausa language, which appeared aimed at inciting Northern Nigerians against President Bola Tinubu.
   • Bwala assured that Nigeria remains steadfast in its leadership role in West Africa and its commitment to fostering bilateral relations.
6. Challenges Raised by Critics
   • The League of Northern Democrats (LND) expressed dissatisfaction with the government’s response, describing it as insufficient and lacking depth.
   • They questioned the government’s outright dismissal of France’s alleged influence in the region, given France’s historical actions in Africa.

The Nigerian government has unequivocally rejected Niger’s allegations, emphasising its commitment to peace, stability, and mutual development in the region. While ECOWAS and various groups have supported Nigeria’s position, some domestic critics have called for a more comprehensive response to address underlying concerns. The government continues to advocate for cooperation and dialogue as the path forward in its relationship with Niger.