The Federal Government of Nigeria has strongly refuted allegations by Nigerien authorities that the Lakurawa terrorist group, allegedly aided by foreign security forces, including Nigerian security personnel, was responsible for the attack on the Niger-Benin oil pipeline on December 13, 2024. in Gaya. , Dosso Region of Niger Republic.
In a statement issued by the Acting Spokesperson of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Kimiebi Imomotimi Ebienfa, the Government of Nigeria expressed its condolences to the Government of Niger over the unfortunate attack on the pipeline. However, he highlighted that the perpetrators received no support or assistance from the Nigerian authorities.
READ ALSO: OSERB fines BEDCOL N2m for illegal disconnection of customers
“The Government of Nigeria is firmly committed to the fight against terrorism and will not tolerate or support the activities of such groups,” the statement read.
Furthermore, the Federal Government dismissed claims that French military troops were present in northern Nigeria with the intention of destabilizing the Government of Niger. “These allegations are baseless and should be completely ignored,” the statement stated.
The Government also reaffirmed the long-standing cordial relationship between Nigeria and France, stressing that it is based on mutual respect, dignity and non-interference in each other's internal affairs. “Nigeria will continue to seek peaceful means to maintain its cordial relationship with the Republic of Niger for the benefit of the people of both countries,” the statement concluded.