Benin Republic has formally summoned Niger’s chargé d’affaires following accusations by the leader of Niger’s junta, Abdourahamane Tchiani, claiming that Benin supports terrorist activities in West Africa.
Benin’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs has described the allegations as baseless and provocative, reaffirming the country’s dedication to peace and regional cooperation.
In a statement released on Tuesday via its official X account, Foreign Minister Olushegun Bakari confirmed the diplomatic summons. “Due to the unfounded accusations made against our country, the chargé d’affaires of Niger has been summoned,” the statement read, as reported by AFP.
The ministry further disclosed that a formal letter of protest had been delivered to Niger, categorically rejecting the allegations. It emphasized Benin’s commitment to fostering peaceful and cooperative relations with its neighbours.
The diplomatic strain arose after Tchiani’s Christmas Day speech, in which he alleged that Benin was serving as a logistical base for terrorists targeting Niger.
This latest development comes amidst heightened regional tensions following the July 2023 military coup in Niger, which ousted President Mohamed Bazoum from power. Relations between Niger and Benin have been fraught, marked by disputes over trade, oil exports, and border closures. However, there had been recent signs of reconciliation, including the exchange of new ambassadors.
Despite the accusations, Benin’s foreign ministry urged for continued dialogue, warning that such unfounded claims could undermine regional stability. “Benin remains committed to dialogue and to fraternal collaboration between the two nations,” the ministry reiterated.
Tchiani’s claims have also prompted responses from Nigeria, which he accused of hosting a French military base aimed at destabilizing Niger. National Security Adviser Nuhu Ribadu dismissed the allegation, stating that it is entirely false. “Nigeria does not and will not permit any foreign military base on its soil,” Ribadu asserted.
The Nigerian government also expressed its readiness to engage in dialogue with Niger to address the ongoing tensions, signaling a commitment to peaceful resolutions in the region.
