The Federal Government of Nigeria has dismissed reports alleging that the Lakurawa terrorist group, purportedly aided by foreign security forces, including Nigerian personnel, was responsible for the attack on the Niger-Benin oil pipeline on December 13, 2024, in Gaya, Dosso Region of the Niger Republic.
In a statement issued on Saturday by Kimiebi Imomotimi Ebienfa, the acting spokesperson for the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, the Nigerian government expressed condolences to the government of Niger over the unfortunate incident and clarified that the attackers were not supported by Nigerian authorities.
The government reaffirmed its commitment to combating terrorism and emphasised that it does not condone the activities of such groups.
Additionally, the Federal Government denied claims that French military troops are stationed in northern Nigeria to destabilise the government of Niger.
According to the statement, Nigeria’s relationship with France has always been cordial, characterised by mutual respect and non-interference in each other’s internal affairs.
Nigerian government debunks allegations of involvement in Niger oil pipeline attack