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 the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Kimiebi Ebienfa, the Federal Government denied any involvement with the Lakurawa terrorist group or allegations that its security forces collaborated in the incident.
The statement partly read, “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 Federal Government also dismissed claims of French military presence in northern Nigeria allegedly aimed at destabilising Niger.
Highlighting the longstanding cordial relations between Nigeria and France, the statement reiterated that both nations adhered 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, emphasising that such partnerships would benefit the citizens of both nations.