The Federal Government has dismissed reports suggesting that Nigeria supported the failed attempt to overthrow the government in Niger Republic, describing the claims circulating online as false and designed to mislead the public. Minister of State for Foreign Affairs, Sola Enikanolaiye, gave the clarification in a statement on Thursday, stressing that Nigeria’s position remained firmly […]
The Federal Government has dismissed reports suggesting that Nigeria supported the failed attempt to overthrow the government in Niger Republic, describing the claims circulating online as false and designed to mislead the public.
Minister of State for Foreign Affairs, Sola Enikanolaiye, gave the clarification in a statement on Thursday, stressing that Nigeria’s position remained firmly against military coups and other forms of unconstitutional change of government.
According to the minister, social media platforms had been flooded with claims alleging that ECOWAS supported the attempted coup and that Nigeria, as a member of the regional bloc, consequently endorsed the action.
Enikanolaiye said the allegations were completely unfounded and capable of damaging Nigeria’s reputation, insisting that the country remained a strong advocate of democracy, constitutional governance and stability in the region.
He recalled that the Federal Government had addressed the situation in Niger in an August 30 statement by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, in which Nigeria expressed concern over the developments and called for a peaceful and inclusive path back to stability and constitutional order.
The minister said Nigeria’s interest in Niger was driven by the close relationship between the two neighbouring countries, noting their shared historical, cultural and fraternal connections.
He explained that Nigeria wanted to see peace, security, democracy and development prevail in Niger and across the Sahel, adding that the use of force to resolve political disagreements was inconsistent with Nigeria’s foreign policy.
“While Nigeria is a proud and committed member of ECOWAS, it is unfair, mischievous and entirely false to suggest that Nigeria endorses or condones the military coup,” Enikanolaiye said.
He maintained that Nigeria would not support unconstitutional changes of government anywhere, regardless of the country involved or the individuals behind such actions.
Enikanolaiye consequently called on Nigerians at home and abroad to disregard videos and other online narratives concerning Nigeria’s alleged involvement in the failed coup, saying such materials were intended to create division and confusion.
The minister further reaffirmed the country’s adherence to the ECOWAS Protocol on Democracy and Good Governance, as well as the African Union’s policy rejecting unconstitutional seizures of power.
He said Nigeria would continue to cooperate with ECOWAS, the African Union and other members of the international community in defending democratic principles, strengthening the rule of law and promoting peace throughout West Africa and the Sahel.
The Federal Government’s latest statement therefore places Nigeria’s position on the Niger crisis beyond ambiguity, with Abuja insisting that it neither supported nor endorsed the failed military takeover.