Niger: Disagreement between Cotonou and Niamey, Nigerien civil society gives its point of view
The rift between Cotonou and Niamey is becoming increasingly worrisome, raising questions about the possibility of a third entity operating in the shadows to further destabilize an already chaotic situation.This sentiment is shared by Nigerien civil society organizations, which recently held a meeting to discuss the tensions between Niger and its neighbor, Benin.
The outcome of this meeting suggests that these conflicts are part of a Machiavellian plan orchestrated by Western imperialism. France and its allied leaders are accused of perpetually devising schemes to create discord wherever development plans are initiated.
It is widely believed that the arrest of five Nigerien engineers is a plot conceived in Paris and executed in Cotonou. Since the events of July 26, 2023, when the CNSP came to power, France has lost its leverage over Niger following the fall of Bazoum’s government, which had turned Niger into a virtual French sub-prefecture. France is now allegedly seeking to retaliate against Niger’s authorities for the humiliation it suffered when its military forces were expelled.
Civil society organizations denounce this sabotage plan orchestrated by France to fulfill its vengeful desires by halting the export of Nigerien oil from Sèmé-Kodji. They demand the immediate and unconditional release of their arrested compatriots. The signatories also announced the establishment of vigilance and response committees in various neighborhoods.
If the situation remains unresolved, a demonstration in support of the CNSP is planned for Friday, June 21, across the entire country. This demonstration aims to show the international community the Nigerien people’s determination to take control of their destiny despite the obstacles posed by external forces.
