The Democratic Front (TDF) has urged Nigerians to ignore attempts by Gen. Abdourahamane Tchiani, the military ruler of Niger Republic, to drag Nigeria into his country’s diplomatic row with France.
The group made the call in a statement signed by its Chairman, Malam Danjuma Muhammad, and Secretary, Chief Wale Adedayo.
It expressed concerns that the Nigerien leader accused Nigeria of sponsoring a terrorist group causing mayhem in the northern part of the country.
“We rebuff, in strongest terms, the allegations by Niger’s military leader Abdourahamane Tchiani that Nigeria was colluding with France to destabilise his country.
“Furthermore, his claim that Nigeria seeks to sabotage the Trans- Saharan gas pipeline and disrupt agriculture in Niger Republic is ridiculous and baseless because the gas pipeline was a Nigerian initiative,” the group said.
It said President Bola Tinubu had displayed consideration for the people of Niger when he led the ECOWAS in February 2024 to lift sanctions imposed in the wake of the military coup that ousted Mohamed Bazoum in July 2023.
“We also note that President Bola Tinubu directed that the electricity supply to Niger which has been cut in response to the sanctions be restored, and the borders be opened for the people of Niger to survive.
“In addition to these humanitarian gestures, the Nigerian president has continued to ensure proper funding for the Kano-Maradi railway project which the Niger people stand to benefit from.
“It is a fact that more than any other country in West Africa, Nigeria has committed more funds and human resources to regional peace, security and stability,” said TDF.(NAN)
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