The Republic of Niger’s claims that Nigeria sponsored a terrorist group, Lakurawa, to undermine its military junta have been dismissed as “fake news” by a regional advocacy group.
The Coalition for the Advancement of Peace and Democracy in West Africa (CAPDWA) described the allegations as a calculated attempt to sow discord between Nigeria and Niger.
Speaking at a press conference in Abuja, the group’s Secretary General, Hajia Rahila Umar, condemned the junta’s accusations as baseless. The Nigerien authorities had alleged that Nigerian forces, alongside foreign collaborators, supported the 13th December 2024 attack on the Niger-Benin oil pipeline in the Dosso Region.
“These claims are grossly misleading and unfounded,” Umar stated. “Nigeria has a long history of combating terrorism, often in collaboration with Nigerien forces. The allegations undermine the strong brotherhood between the two nations and attempt to drag Nigeria into Niger’s internal crisis.”
She noted that the accusations come at a time when Nigeria is making significant strides in curbing terrorism and banditry. Umar urged the Nigerien junta to refrain from spreading propaganda aimed at creating unrest in Nigeria.
“The Nigerian government and military remain committed to fighting terrorism and will not condone or support such activities,” she affirmed. Umar also highlighted the cordial relations between Nigeria and France, refuting suggestions of any colonial ties or alliances that could influence Nigeria’s actions in the region.
CAPDWA called on the junta to focus on resolving its internal challenges rather than attempting to destabilize its neighbors through misinformation.
