Senate probes Niger Republic’s claim on Lakurawa
The Nigerian Senate has launched an investigation into allegations made by Niger Republic’s Head of State, Brig. Gen. Abdourahmane Tchiani, accusing Nigeria of colluding with France to destabilise his country through a militia group known as Lakurawa.
The Senate also resolved to conduct a fact-finding visit to Sokoto, Zamfara, and Kebbi States, where the alleged armed group is said to be operating.
Speaking in Hausa in December 2024, Gen. Tchiani had claimed that there were plans to establish a terrorist training camp in Gaba Forest, near Sokoto, as part of a supposed agreement between France and the Islamic State West Africa Province.
He further alleged that Nigerian authorities were aware of these developments.
“There is a proposal that is being made, but the leaders of Nigeria are aware that there is a forest named Gaba near Sokoto. They want to make this forest a training ground for Lakurawa terrorists,” Tchiani had stated.
The Deputy Senate President, Jibrin Barau (APC, Kano North), who presided over Thursday’s plenary session, directed the Committees on National Security and Intelligence and Foreign Affairs to conduct a thorough probe and report back within four weeks.
The committees will also recommend diplomatic and security measures to reinforce Nigeria’s historical ties with Niger Republic and ensure continued cooperation in security and other mutual interests.
The decision followed the adoption of a motion titled “Urgent Need to Investigate Allegations Against Nigeria’s Sovereignty by the Head of State of Niger Republic, Brig Gen Abdourahmane Tchiani,” sponsored by Senator Shehu Umar (APC, Bauchi South).
Umar expressed concern over the allegations, describing them as “serious and unfounded” and warning that they could strain relations between the two nations.
He noted that Nigeria and Niger have shared long-standing, cordial ties marked by cooperation in security, trade, and culture. He also condemned the public nature of Tchiani’s accusations, stating that they “tarnish Nigeria’s international image and undermine its sovereignty without presenting any credible evidence.”
Umar further defended Nigerian officials, including the National Security Adviser, Mallam Nuhu Ribadu, and the former Director-General of the National Intelligence Agency, Ambassador Ahmed Rufai, both of whom he said had worked to maintain regional stability.
Upon learning of the allegations, Ribadu swiftly dismissed them as baseless, asserting that “Nigeria has never allowed a foreign military base on its soil, having previously rejected such requests from both the United States and the United Kingdom.”
Senate Leader Opeyemi Bamidele urged lawmakers to avoid discussing the matter openly due to its security implications, a suggestion that was widely supported in plenary.
