Diplomatic Row: Benin Summons Niger Republic Envoy Over Terrorism Claims
As diplomatic argument ensued between Benin Republic and Niger Republic, the former has summoned the later’s diplomat in response to allegations by Niger’s junta leader, Abdourahamane Tchiani, accusing Benin of supporting terrorist activities in West Africa.
Meanwhile in response, Benin’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs has described the claims as “baseless and inflammatory” and lodged a formal protest against the accusations.
The ministry announced the diplomatic move on Tuesday via its official X account, confirming that the Nigerien chargé d’affaires had been summoned to provide clarification.
The statement read, “Due to the unfounded accusations made against our country, the chargé d’affaires of Niger has been summoned.”
Meanwhile, the foreign Minister Olushegun Bakari, also delivered a protest letter to Niger’s representative, rejecting the allegations and reaffirming Benin’s dedication to regional peace and cooperation.
However, the tension escalated after Tchiani, in a Christmas Day address, accused Benin of acting as a staging ground for terrorists aiming to destabilise Niger.
The statement adds to a series of challenges between the neighboring countries, including disputes over oil exports, border closures, and trade issues, especially since the military coup in Niger in July 2023.
However, despite recent tensions, both Benin and Niger have shown signs of reconciliation, including the appointment of new ambassadors.
Benin’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs reiterated its commitment to dialogue and cooperation, cautioning that unfounded accusations could threaten regional stability.
“Benin remains dedicated to dialogue and fraternal collaboration between the two countries,” the ministry stated.
The allegations have also sparked reactions from other countries, including Nigeria, which was accused of hosting a French military base aimed at destabilizing Niger.
Nigeria’s National Security Adviser, Nuhu Ribadu, rejected the claim, labeling it as baseless, and affirmed that Nigeria would never permit a foreign military base on its territory.
Meanwhile, the diplomatic tension followed a Christmas Day speech by Tchiani, in which he accused Benin of acting as a haven for terrorists seeking to
