by Nurat Uthman
The Federal Government, on Saturday, refuted claims made by Nigerien authorities that it played a role in the December 13 attack on the Niger-Benin oil pipeline in Gaya, Dosso Region, Niger Republic.
In a statement issued by the spokesperson for Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Kimiebi Ebienfa, the Nigerian government denied any involvement with the Lakurawa terrorist group or allegations that its security forces collaborated in the incident.
It expressed condolences to Niger over the attack but emphasized its unwavering commitment to combating terrorism and disassociating itself from any such groups.
“The Federal Government of Nigeria refutes in very strong terms, allegations by the Nigerien authorities that the Lakurawa terrorist group, with the help of foreign security forces, including Nigerian security forces, were responsible for the attack on the Niger-Benin oil pipeline on the 13th of December 2024, in Gaya, Dosso Region of Niger Republic.
“The Government of Nigeria condoles with the Government of Niger over the unfortunate attack on the oil pipeline, but informs that the perpetrators were neither backed nor assisted by Nigerian authorities.
“The Government of Nigeria is strongly committed to the fight against terrorism and will not condone or support the activities of such groups,” the statement read in part.
The Nigerian government also dismissed claims of French military presence in northern Nigeria allegedly aimed at destabilising Niger.
It described these accusations as baseless and called for their outright dismissal.
Highlighting the longstanding cordial relations between Nigeria and France, the government reiterated that both nations adhere to principles of mutual respect, dignity, and non-interference in internal affairs.
Nigeria reaffirmed its commitment to maintaining peaceful and cooperative relations with the Republic of Niger, emphasizing that such partnerships benefit the citizens of both nations.
“The Federal Government of Nigeria also expresses very serious concern and states categorically that there are no French military troops in the northern part of the country preparing to destabilize the Government of Niger. These allegations are unfounded and should be discarded in their entirety.
“It is important to state that the relationship between Nigeria and France has always been cordial, and it is guided by mutual respect, dignity, and non-interference in each other’s internal affairs.
“Nigeria will continue to explore all peaceful means to maintain its cordial relationship with the Republic of Niger for the benefit of the people of both countries,” the statement concluded.
