Niger’s transitional authorities have rejected reopening the border with neighboring Benin, in a move that marks a serious escalation in the ongoing diplomatic dispute between the two countries.
Niamey said it would only reconsider its position if “reassuring signals” were provided by Cotonou, as the humanitarian and economic hardship continues to deepen for people on both sides who have lost their daily sources of income.
The dispute stems from Niger’s repeated accusations that Benin has allowed a French military presence in the Toru area near Parakou.
Both Benin and France have strongly denied the allegations, stressing that any military cooperation operates within formal and transparent agreements.
Meanwhile, residents of the border town of Gaya are bearing the brunt of the standoff, with cross-border trade and movement brought to a near standstill.
Observers say that the most viable path forward lies in swift regional mediation to prevent further escalation between the two West African neighbors.
