Border Communities Reject Claims of Foreign Military Base in Sokoto State

• Border communities in Sokoto State dismissed claims by Nigerien leader Tchiani about a foreign military base, calling them baseless and damaging
• Local leaders emphasized strong ties with Niger, urging caution to prevent actions that could harm bilateral relations and community cooperation

Border communities in Sokoto State have debunked claims by Nigerien Junta leader, Abdurrahman Tchiani, about the existence of a forest named ‘Gaba’ hosting a foreign military base within the state.

Reporters visiting the area revealed no such forest or foreign military presence in Sokoto. Residents and local leaders dismissed the allegations as baseless and potentially damaging to the historically strong ties between the two nations.

Sokoto shares border with Niger Republic through five local government areas: Illela, Gada, Tangaza, Gudu, and Sabon Birni.

Historically, these regions were part of the defunct Sokoto Caliphate, fostering enduring connections between communities on both sides of the border.

Alhaji Abubakar Yusufu, the Sarkin Arewan Araba of a border community in Illela LGA, rejected the claims outright, stating:

“There is no such forest in Araba district or Illela local government, and we don’t see any foreigners in our villages. It’s a baseless tea joint discussion meant to strain the historic relationship between us and our neighbors in Niger.”

Yusufu also pointed out that Nigerien military operatives have been crossing into Nigerian territory, collaborating with local vigilantes to maintain peace, contradicting Tchiani’s allegations.

Another resident, Malam Muhammadu Danladi, described the claims as a deliberate smear against Nigeria.

“There is no presence of foreigners in our community. It’s an unfounded allegation,” he said.

Danladi further accused Nigerien security operatives of harassing Nigerians at border areas over the past six months, citing unjustified seizures of goods.

“Their operatives are harassing our people and seizing their goods without cause, while they enjoy free access into Nigeria. Our government needs to address this imbalance,” he added.

In Tabanni Siddi, Gada LGA, residents also refuted claims of a foreign base or forest called ‘Gaba’ in their area or its surroundings.

A commercial motorcyclist, Muhammad, who frequently transports passengers and goods across the border, confirmed the absence of any foreign military presence.

However, he lamented the “inhuman treatment” allegedly inflicted on Nigerians by Nigerien security operatives.

Community leaders have urged Nigerian and Nigerien governments to avoid actions or statements that could harm bilateral relations.

They also called for Nigerian authorities to take steps to protect citizens from harassment by Nigerien security personnel at border areas.