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The Federal Government has rejected claims that Nigeria or the Economic Community of West African States backed the failed coup attempt in the Niger Republic, describing the reports as false and deliberately misleading.
The Minister of State for Foreign Affairs, Ambassador Sola Enikanolaye, made the clarification in a statement on Thursday, saying the claims circulating on social media were intended to misinform the public and damage Nigeria’s reputation.
“The Federal Government of Nigeria categorically rejects these claims as baseless, irresponsible, and a deliberate attempt to misinform the public and tarnish Nigeria’s image,” the minister said.
Enikanolaye said Nigeria remained opposed to unconstitutional changes of government and would not support the use of force to resolve political disputes, regardless of the country or individuals involved.
He recalled that Nigeria had already expressed concern over developments in Niger in an official statement issued on August 30, urging a peaceful, inclusive and participatory return to stability and constitutional order.
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“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,” he said.
The minister said Nigeria’s position was rooted in its commitment to democracy, the rule of law and regional stability, stressing that the country remained committed to the ECOWAS Protocol on Democracy and Good Governance and the African Union’s zero-tolerance policy on unconstitutional changes of government.
He urged Nigerians at home and abroad to disregard videos and narratives being circulated online that claimed otherwise, accusing those behind them of attempting to sow discord.
“Nigeria will continue to work with ECOWAS, the AU and the international community to defend democracy, uphold the rule of law, and promote peace and stability across our region,” Enikanolaye added.
