The government of Côte d’Ivoire has officially responded to accusations from Niger, strongly rejecting claims of involvement in a recent attack on Niamey airport.

Niger’s transitional leader, General Abdourahmane Tiani, had accused Ivorian President Alassane Ouattara of playing a role in the incident, which caused no casualties and was claimed by the Islamic State in the Greater Sahara.

Abidjan has denied any attempt to destabilise Niger and has lodged a formal protest over the allegations, which also implicate France and Benin.

Christopher Atitso has the details.