We’re Not Working With Lakurawa, Others To Destabilize Niger Republic – Nigerian Govt

The Nigerian government has firmly rejected accusations of involvement in an alleged plot to destabilize neighboring Niger Republic.

The allegations, made by Nigerien authorities, claim that the Lakurawa terrorist group, purportedly supported by foreign security forces, including Nigeria, orchestrated the December 13, 2024, attack on the Niger-Benin oil pipeline in Gaya, Dosso Region.

In a statement released on Saturday, the Nigerian Ministry of Foreign Affairs, through its acting spokesperson, Kimiebi Imomotimi Ebienfa, dismissed the claims as baseless.

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“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 statement read.

It further emphasized Nigeria’s commitment to combating terrorism and rejected any suggestion of support for such groups. “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 added.

The statement also refuted claims of French military troops being stationed in northern Nigeria to destabilize Niger. “These allegations are unfounded and should be discarded in their entirety,” it stated.

Highlighting the longstanding positive relations between Nigeria and France, the Ministry noted that their interactions are based on mutual respect, dignity, and non-interference in internal affairs.

Reaffirming its commitment to peaceful diplomacy, the Nigerian government pledged to maintain its cordial relationship with Niger for the mutual benefit of both nations’ citizens.