The Benin Republic has summoned a Nigerien diplomat following accusations by Niger’s junta leader, Abdourahamane Tchiani, alleging that Benin is backing terrorist activities in West Africa.
The move, announced on Tuesday by Benin’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs, is a formal protest against what Benin describes as baseless and inflammatory claims.
In a statement on X, Foreign Minister Olushegun Bakari confirmed that Niger’s chargé d’affaires was summoned to provide clarification on the allegations.
“Due to the unfounded accusations made against our country, the chargé d’affaires of Niger has been summoned,” the statement read.
The ministry also sent a letter of protest rejecting Tchiani’s claims and reiterating Benin’s commitment to peace and regional collaboration.
The diplomatic rift stems from a Christmas Day address by Tchiani, where he accused Benin of serving as a rear base for terrorists aiming to destabilize Niger.
The junta leader’s remarks have strained relations between the two countries, which had recently been making efforts to mend ties following disputes over oil exports, border closures, and trade.
Benin’s foreign ministry reaffirmed its dedication to dialogue and regional cooperation, warning that baseless accusations could undermine stability in West Africa.
“Benin remains committed to dialogue and to fraternal collaboration between the two nations,” the ministry stated.
The allegations have also drawn responses from other implicated nations, including Nigeria, which was accused of hosting a French military base aimed at destabilizing Niger.
National Security Adviser, Nuhu Ribadu dismissed the claim as unfounded, emphasizing that Nigeria would never permit a foreign military base on its soil.
The Federal Government of Nigeria has expressed its openness to dialogue with Niger, reinforcing its commitment to peace and stability in the region.