The Nigerièn government today denounced the multiple violations by Benin Republic of agreements between Niger and Benin regarding the transport of Nigerien crude oil via the pipeline linking both countries.
The Nigerien authorities also accuse Benin of taking five of their nationals, executives of the WAPCO-Niger company, hostage.
Niger recalls that the transport of Nigerien crude oil by pipeline to Benin is governed by three main agreements signed in 2019. These agreements clearly stipulate that the operation of the transport system cannot be hindered for any reason whatsoever, even in case of conflict between the two countries.
However, since July 26, 2023, the Beninese government, under the presidency of Patrice Talon, has increasingly obstructed the proper functioning of the pipeline. The first ship to load Nigerien crude from the Sémé platform was prevented from entering Beninese territorial waters in May 2024.
In addition, Beninese authorities expelled Nigerièn inspectors from the Sémé loading terminal and recently arrested five executives from WAPCO-Niger. The latter are accused, without any proof, of “planning acts of attack on the security of the State of Benin”.
A statement by Benin’s special prosecutor, Mario Metonou, said the individuals had entered Benin’s Seme-Kpodji pipeline terminal under false pretences and accused at least two of the detainees of being agents of Niger’s ruling military junta.
Niger’s Oil Minister, Mahamane Moustapha Barke Bako, rejected the prosecutor’s allegations, telling a press conference in Niamey that those arrested were inspectors supervising the loading of crude oil in line with an agreement with Benin.
The Nigerien government strongly condemned these acts which it described as “provocations” and “traps” aimed at pushing Niger into error. It has demanded the immediate and unconditional release of its nationals and has also called on Benin to respect its contractual obligations.
The Nigerièn government also warned that it is determined to take all necessary measures to obtain the release of its citizens and defend its rights and vital interests.
The country also points out the presence of “subversive destabilisation” French bases on Beninese territory, near the Nigerien border.
Niger called on the People’s Republic of China, a strategic partner in the exploration and marketing of Nigerien oil, to take responsibility and commit to respecting all contractual clauses.
