The Benin Republic has summoned a Nigerien diplomat following allegations by Niger’s junta chief, Abdourahamane Tchiani, accusing the nation of backing terrorist actions in West Africa.
The transfer marks a proper protest towards the claims, which Benin has described as baseless and inflammatory.
In a press release issued by Benin’s Ministry of Overseas Affairs through its X on Tuesday, Overseas Minister Olushegun Bakari confirmed that the Nigerien chargé d’affaires was summoned to supply clarification on the allegations.
“As a result of unfounded accusations made towards our nation, the chargee d’affaires of Niger has been summoned,” the Beninese international ministry mentioned on X, as reported by AFP.
The ministry additionally despatched a letter of protest, rejecting the accusations and emphasising Benin’s dedication to peace and collaboration with its neighbors.
The diplomatic pressure stems from a Christmas Day handle by Tchiani, wherein he accused Benin of serving as a rear base for terrorists looking for to destabilize Niger.
The accusations come amid ongoing regional challenges following the navy coup in Niger that ousted President Mohamed Bazoum in July 2023.
Relations between Niger and Benin have been strained lately, with disputes over oil exports, border closures, and commerce.
Regardless of these challenges, each international locations had lately proven indicators of reconciliation, together with the appointment of latest ambassadors.
Benin’s international ministry reiterated its dedication to dialogue and fraternal cooperation, warning that baseless accusations might undermine regional stability.
“Benin stays dedicated to dialogue and to fraternal collaboration between the 2 nations,” the ministry said.
The allegations have additionally drawn reactions from different implicated international locations, together with Nigeria, which was accused of internet hosting a French navy base meant to destabilize Niger.
The Nationwide Safety Adviser, Nuhu Ribadu, dismissed the declare as unfounded, asserting that Nigeria would by no means permit a international navy base on its soil.
In the meantime, the Federal Authorities has mentioned it’s open to dialogue with Niger.