Benin and Niger Expel Each Other’s Diplomats Amid Rising Political Tensions

Benin and Niger have each expelled diplomats from the other’s mission in a reciprocal diplomatic escalation between the two West African neighbours, officials said on Sunday.

The move comes amid more than two years of strained relations following the military takeover in Niger in July 2023 that ousted President Mohamed Bazoum. Tensions have persisted as the government in Niamey aligned with Burkina Faso and Mali, while Benin remains a member of the Economic Community of West African States.

According to diplomatic sources, Benin first expelled an intelligence officer and a police officer stationed at the Nigerien embassy in Cotonou without specifying the reasons. In response, Niger declared the first counsellor of Benin’s embassy in Niamey “persona non grata,” giving him 48 hours to leave the country.

The reciprocal expulsions reflect mounting friction between Cotonou and Niamey, underscored by competing regional alliances and differing political orientations. Niger is part of the Alliance of Sahel States alongside Burkina Faso and Mali, which have all withdrawn from ECOWAS and share a pro-sovereignty stance that often puts them at odds with coastal West African governments.

Officials in both capitals did not provide further details on whether additional diplomatic measures would follow. Observers say the developments further complicate efforts to stabilise political relations in the region.

SOURCE: AFP