The Economic of West African States (ECOWAS) has said the terrorism allegations against Nigeria and other member states by the Niger Republic was “unfounded”, saying it is solidly behind its members.
Niger Republic had said Nigeria and other ECOWAS members were colluding with France to destabilise the country.
The Federal Government through the Minister of Information and National Orientation, Alhaji Mohammed Idris Malagi on Thursday denied Niger Republic’s allegation.
Malagi in a statement, denied the claims by Niger Republic’s military leader, General Abdourahamane Tchiani, that Nigeria was working with France against his country.
“These claims exist solely in the realm of imagination. Nigeria has never engaged in any alliance, overt or covert, with France—or any other country—to destabilize Niger Republic,” the statement read.
Also on Thursday, ECOWAS in a statement described the allegations as “unfounded”.
“The Commission of the Economic and West African Staes (ECOWAS) expresses deep concern over allegations being made against Nigeria and other ECOWAS member states.
“The Commission stands firmly by Nigeria and ECOWAS member states against allegations that they are sponsoring terrorism.
“For years, Nigeria has supported peace and security of several countries not only in the West African subregion but also on the African continent.
“The recent successes recorded by the Multinational Joint Task Force (MNJTF), which Nigeria leads, demonstrate the country’s commitment to peace and security across the region.
“ECOWAS therefore, refutes any suggestion that such a generous and magnanimous country would become a state-sponsor of terrorism,” the statement read in part.
ECOWAS then called on all states in the region to promote dialogue and stability and refrain from making accusations that are not supported by any evidence.
