The Federal Government, on Saturday, refuted claims made by Nigerien authorities that it played a role in the December 13 attack on the Niger-Benin oil pipeline in Gaya, Dosso Region, Niger Republic.
In a statement issued by the spokesperson for Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Kimiebi Ebienfa, the Nigerian government denied any involvement with the Lakurawa terrorist group or allegations that its security forces collaborated in the incident.
It expressed condolences to Niger over the attack but emphasised its unwavering commitment to combating terrorism and disassociating itself from any such groups, according to The PUNCH.
“The Federal Government of Nigeria refutes in very strong terms, allegations by the Nigerien authorities that the Lakurawa terrorist group, with the help of foreign security forces, including Nigerian security forces, were responsible for the attack on the Niger-Benin oil pipeline on the 13th of December 2024, in Gaya, Dosso Region of Niger Republic.
“The Government of Nigeria condoles with the Government of Niger over the unfortunate attack on the oil pipeline, but informs that the perpetrators were neither backed nor assisted by Nigerian authorities.
“The Government of Nigeria is strongly committed to the fight against terrorism and will not condone or support the activities of such groups,” the statement read in part.
The Nigerian government also dismissed claims of French military presence in northern Nigeria allegedly aimed at destabilising Niger.
