Benin Denies Allegations of Aiding Terrorism

(MENAFN) Benin has firmly denied accusations suggesting that it is collaborating with Western nations to provide sanctuary to terrorists in an attempt to undermine Niger and the broader Sahel area.

This region has been enduring a persistent jihadist rebellion for over ten years, posing a serious threat to regional stability.

On Monday, a French media outlet cited Beninese Foreign Minister Olushegun Adjadi Bakari, who rejected the allegations made by Niger’s interim leader, General Abdourahamane Tchiani.

Bakari labeled the accusations as “unfounded,” emphasizing that Benin is committed to combating extremism within its territory and from adjacent countries.

“Benin is fighting terrorism on its soil and from neighboring countries, with determination and at the cost of heavy sacrifices. Attempting to associate our country with such practices is not only unacceptable, but also profoundly unfair to our defense and security forces and our entire people,” Bakari stated.

His comments underscored the nation’s stance that linking Benin to such activities is a grave misrepresentation.

These remarks came in response to Tchiani’s assertions on Saturday, in which he alleged that Benin and Nigeria were serving as logistical bases for operatives backed by France, purportedly working to destabilize Niger.

He further claimed that secret gatherings involving Western countries and selected African allies had occurred in Nigeria and the Lake Chad Basin, during which arms were allegedly supplied to militant factions active in the Sahel.

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