France has swiftly rebutted claims of clandestine troop deployments in Benin Republic, purportedly aimed at countering the junta government in neighboring Niger Republic. The refutation comes in response to assertions made by a Nigerian newspaper, alleging the covert arrival of French soldiers in Benin.

In a statement issued by the French Embassy in Nigeria, the allegations were dismissed as baseless and part of a wider disinformation campaign. The embassy clarified that the aircraft mentioned in the article had no affiliation with the French military. Furthermore, it reiterated France's stance, emphasizing the absence of any existing military bases or plans to establish such installations in Benin. French security and defense cooperation with partner nations, including Benin, are underscored as being conducted with utmost transparency and mutual agreement.

A senior officer from the French Embassy denounced the allegations, labeling them as unfounded and ludicrous. He emphasized the transparent nature of French military cooperation with Benin and dismissed accusations of training terrorists as devoid of merit.

In light of these developments, Benin government spokesperson Wilfried Houngbédji extended an invitation to General Tiani, the junta leader from Niger, and independent media outlets to verify the absence of any French military presence in Benin. Houngbédji clarified the distinction between military bases and existing fortified forward points, affirming Benin's commitment to national security and counterterrorism efforts.

The invitation extended by Houngbédji serves to challenge the credibility of the allegations while highlighting Benin's dedication to transparency regarding its military infrastructure amidst regional tensions.

Source: Arise tv