Sokoto, Kebbi Border Communities Reject Nigerien Leader’s Allegations of Foreign Military Presence
Traditional leaders and residents from border communities in Sokoto and Kebbi states have firmly denied accusations made by Nigerien leader Abdourahamane Tchiani, who claimed that Nigeria is harboring French military bases and terrorist training camps aimed at destabilizing Niger.
In response to Tchiani’s assertions, reporters from the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) visited several border areas in Sokoto and Kebbi on Friday and found no evidence to support the allegations.
Tchiani’s Allegations
In a Christmas Day interview, Tchiani accused Nigeria of hosting a French military base near Lake Chad and alleged that terrorist training camps had been established in Sokoto, Kebbi, and Zamfara states to destabilize Niger.
Community Leaders’ Reactions
Local leaders and residents of the affected border communities swiftly dismissed Tchiani’s claims as false:
Alhaji Aminu Aliyu, District Head of Balle in Sokoto’s Gudu Local Government, emphasized that there have been no reports of foreign military presence or training camps in his area, which shares a border with Niger.
Malam Abdurahman Usman, a representative of Marake, Kurdula, and Bikini communities near the Niger border, similarly confirmed that no such military activity was occurring.
Malam Kabiru Muhammad, a resident of Ruwa-Wuri in Tangaza LGA, acknowledged the presence of local bandits but strongly denied the existence of any foreign military camps.
Other residents, including Adamu Bagobiri and Yusuf Abubakar, also rejected the allegations, stressing the importance of strengthening relations between Nigeria and Niger, particularly through long-standing intermarriage and trade ties.
Kebbi State Leaders Reject Allegations
Traditional rulers in Kebbi State also dismissed Tchiani’s accusations:
Alhaji Murtala Muhammad-Kaka, District Head of Bayawa in Augie LGA, described Tchiani’s claims as divisive, aimed at disrupting the peaceful coexistence of border communities.
Alhaji Muhammad Salah, District Head of Kasaki in Bagudo LGA, highlighted the deep-rooted relationships between communities on both sides of the border, citing his own family’s ties with Benin Republic.
Call for Improved Border Security
While rejecting the accusations, many leaders acknowledged ongoing security concerns, with some calling for increased vigilance against threats such as terrorism, smuggling, and the illegal proliferation of arms.
Federal Government’s Response
The Nigerian government has categorically rejected Tchiani’s claims. Mohammed Idris, the Minister of Information and National Orientation, stated that Nigeria had never engaged in any collaboration with France or any other nation to destabilize Niger. He reiterated President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s commitment to peace and diplomacy, emphasizing Nigeria’s open dialogue with Niger despite its internal political challenges.
Strengthening Bilateral Relations
As the Nigerian government and local communities refute the allegations, calls for stronger bilateral relations between Nigeria and Niger have gained momentum. Leaders from both sides have urged for a focus on improving security and fostering mutual cooperation to ensure regional stability.
