Niger’s military leader, General Abdourahamane Tiani, has once again accused France of attempting to destabilize the country through Benin following the expulsion of French troops engaged in counter-terrorism efforts.

In a recent interview marking Niger’s independence anniversary, Tiani claimed that French intelligence agents, removed from Niger, have been relocated to Nigeria and Benin.

He alleged these agents, along with elements of the Beninese armed forces, are involved in subversive activities.

Niger’s new government, which took power last July, has shifted its international alliances and accused neighboring Benin of harboring French bases, a claim both Benin and France deny.

This has led to ongoing diplomatic tensions and disputes within the region.