The Federal Government has dismissed claims circulating on social media that the Economic Community of West African States, ECOWAS, supported the recent failed coup attempt in Niger Republic.
Minister of State for Foreign Affairs, Ambassador Sola Enikanolaiye, described the allegations as baseless and misleading, saying Nigeria has never supported and will not support military coups or any unconstitutional change of government.
In a statement, the Minister reaffirmed Nigeria’s commitment to democracy, constitutional order and regional stability, stressing that the country remains a strong advocate for peace across West Africa, the Sahel and the African continent.
Enikanolaiye recalled Nigeria’s recent position on the situation in Niger, which called for a peaceful, inclusive and participatory process to restore stability and constitutional order in the country.
He said Nigeria’s longstanding historical and cultural ties with Niger informed its commitment to peace, security and development in the neighbouring country, adding that the use of force to resolve political disagreements is inconsistent with Nigeria’s foreign policy.
While reaffirming Nigeria’s commitment to ECOWAS, the Minister rejected suggestions that the country endorsed or condoned the alleged coup, describing such claims as unfair, mischievous and entirely false.
He urged Nigerians to disregard videos and narratives circulating online, accusing their promoters of attempting to create division and damage Nigeria’s image.
The Minister also reaffirmed Nigeria’s adherence to the ECOWAS Protocol on Democracy and Good Governance and the African Union’s zero-tolerance policy towards unconstitutional changes of government.
He said Nigeria would continue to work with ECOWAS, the African Union and other international partners to strengthen democracy, uphold the rule of law and promote peace and stability in the region.