Border communities in Sokoto have refuted claims made by Nigerien military leader Abdurrahman Tchani, who alleged that a forest called ‘Gaba’ serves as a base for foreign military operations in Sokoto state. Local leaders and residents insist that no such forest exists within the state.
During a recent visit to the border areas, it was confirmed that community members firmly denied any presence of foreign military personnel. Sokoto shares its border with the Niger Republic through five local government areas: Illela, Gada, Tangaza, Gudu, and Sabon Birni.
The Sarkin Arewan Araba, Alhaji Abubakar Yusufu, from Illela LGA, stated that there is no village or forest named Gaba in his jurisdiction. He characterized the allegations as unfounded, cautioning that such claims could damage the historical ties between the communities on both sides of the border.
“There is no such forest in Araba district or Illela local government, and we don’t see any foreigners in our villages; it’s just a tea joint discussion. In fact, Nigerien military personnel have been collaborating with our vigilantes at night to maintain peace in our communities,” he said.
Another resident, Malam Muhammadu Danladi, described the allegations as an attempt to tarnish Nigeria’s image. He highlighted the harassment faced by Nigerians from Nigerien security forces over the past six months, noting that their operatives often seize goods without cause while allowing their citizens to cross the border freely.
“Their security operatives have been harassing our people, seizing their goods for no reason. Meanwhile, their citizens come to buy goods without any issues. We want our government to address this situation,” he expressed.
Additionally, Muhammad, a commercial motorcyclist who transports goods to Konni, corroborated the residents’ statements, affirming the absence of foreigners in their communities and lamenting the inhumane treatment by Nigerien security personnel.
Residents of Tabanni Siddi in Gada LGA echoed similar sentiments, insisting that neither Gaba forest nor any foreign military base exists in their area.
