The Nigerian Senate has launched an investigation into allegations made by Niger Republic’s Head of State, Brigadier General Abdourahmane Tchiani, accusing Nigeria of conspiring with France to destabilize his country.
During a plenary session, the Senate directed its committees on Intelligence and National Security and Foreign Affairs to probe the claims.
The resolution followed a motion sponsored by Senator Shehu Umar Buba (Bauchi South).
Tchiani alleged that a militia group, known as Lakurawa, was being formed in Northwest Nigeria to threaten Niger, with its base allegedly situated in a forest near Gaba, Sokoto State.
He also claimed that Nigeria was hosting foreign military bases targeting Niger’s oil infrastructure, with operational activities extending into Sokoto, Zamfara, and Kebbi states.
Expressing concern over the accusations, Buba described them as baseless and damaging to Nigeria’s sovereignty and international reputation.
He noted that despite diplomatic tensions following the July 26, 2023, coup in Niger, which led ECOWAS, under Nigeria’s leadership, to demand a return to constitutional democracy, relations between the two countries had shown signs of improvement.
However, Tchiani’s statements on December 26, 2024, were seen as a setback to these diplomatic efforts.
Nigerian officials, including National Security Adviser Nuhu Ribadu and former National Intelligence Agency Director-General Ahmed Rufai, had played key roles in promoting regional peace, making the accusations even more contentious.
The Senate criticized the Nigerien leader for making public accusations instead of addressing concerns through diplomatic channels.
Lawmakers emphasized that Nigeria’s Constitution grants the National Assembly oversight over international treaties and agreements, and no such arrangements permitting foreign military bases or militias had been approved.
In response, the Senate mandated the committees to conduct a thorough investigation, including a fact-finding mission to Sokoto, Zamfara, and Kebbi states, to verify the existence of the alleged militia group and military activities.
Additionally, the red chamber recommended diplomatic and security measures aimed at strengthening Nigeria’s historical ties with Niger and ensuring regional stability.
