The Federal Government has denied endorsement of the failed coup attempt in the Niger Republic.

Minister of State for Foreign Affairs, Amb Sola Enikanolaye, in a statement issued on Thursday and made available to newsmen, rejected the claim and described it as an attempt to misinform the public.

“The attention of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs has been drawn to a series of false and mischievous claims circulating on social media, suggesting that the recent failed coup attempt in Niger Republic had the backing of ECOWAS and, by insinuation, the endorsement of the Federal Republic of Nigeria.

“The Federal Government of Nigeria categorically rejects these claims as baseless, irresponsible, and a deliberate attempt to misinform the public and tarnish Nigeria’s image.”

The minister said that Nigeria viewed with deep concern any unconstitutional change of government.

“As a sisterly neighbour bound by close historical, fraternal and cultural ties, Nigeria desires only peace, security, democracy and development for Niger, the sub-region and the Sahel.

“As was stated in the press statement under reference, any resort to force to settle political differences is contrary to this objective and to Nigeria’s long-standing foreign policy.

“While Nigeria is a proud and committed member of ECOWAS, it is unfair, mischievous and entirely false to suggest that Nigeria endorses or condones the military coup.

“We urge the Nigerian public, both at home and abroad, to disregard the videos and narratives being circulated online by individuals seeking to sow discord,” the statement added.

The minister said Nigeria remained firmly committed to the ECOWAS Protocol on Democracy and Good Governance and to the African Union’s zero tolerance for unconstitutional change of government.

“Nigeria will continue to work with ECOWAS, the AU and the international community to defend democracy, uphold the rule of law, and promote peace and stability across our region,” he added.