Femi Fani-Kayode (FFK), a prominent Nigerian politician and former Minister of Aviation, has dismissed allegations made by Niger Republic’s military leader, Abdourahamane Tchiani, accusing Nigeria of conspiring with France to destabilise his country.
In a series of posts on his social media platform, Fani-Kayode described Tchiani’s claims as “infantile, puerile, mendacious and asinine,” accusing the Nigerien leader of making baseless assertions designed to create discord within Nigeria.
Tchiani alleged that President Bola Tinubu and National Security Adviser Nuhu Ribadu were collaborating with France to sponsor terrorist groups and that French military bases were operating within Nigeria.
These claims were categorically refuted by Fani-Kayode, who branded them a “squalid attempt” to undermine Nigeria’s government and sow division among its citizens.
“I am equally certain that Nigeria, being one of the major victims of these terrorist organisations, has had no part in it and that no Nigerian President, past or present, has indulged in such grave and dangerous actions,” Fani-Kayode asserted.
He also reiterated his longstanding belief that Western powers have been complicit in fostering terrorist groups that have plagued the West African sub-region over the past 15 years.
However, he firmly rejected any suggestion that Nigeria has been involved in such activities.
Fani-Kayode warned Tchiani to tread carefully, highlighting Nigeria’s superior defence capabilities. “The defence budget for his country, Mali, and Burkina Faso combined is not up to 25% of Nigeria’s,” he emphasised.
Urging the Federal Government to consider stronger responses if the provocations persist, Fani-Kayode stated, “We are under no obligation to show restraint when we are being undermined and maligned.”
The remarks come amid strained relations between Nigeria and Niger Republic following the military takeover in Niger and ongoing regional tensions.