The Nigerian Government has strongly refuted allegations by authorities of Niger Republic that the Lakurawa terrorist group, allegedly aided by foreign security forces, including Nigerian security personnel, was responsible for the attack on the Niger-Benin Republic oil pipeline on December 13, 2024, in Gaya, Dosso Region.
In a statement signed by the spokesperson of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Kimiebi Ebienfa, the Government of Nigeria expressed condolences to the Government of Niger Republic over the unfortunate pipeline attack.
However, it emphasised that the perpetrators were neither supported nor assisted by Nigerian authorities. “The Government of Nigeria is firmly committed to the fight against terrorism and will neither condone nor support the activities of such groups”.
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“The Federal Government has dismissed claims of French military troops being present in northern Nigeria with the intent to destabilise the Government of Niger’. The statement declares that “These allegations are baseless and should be disregarded entirely”.
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.
(Editor: Terverr Tyav)
