TheCable

The Peoples Redemption Party (PRP) has kicked against foreign military bases in Nigeria.

There have been insinuations that the US and France may relocate their military bases to Nigeria following strained relations with other countries in the Sahel region.

Relations between Niger Republic and France became strained after the military coup in the Sahel country.

The US also reportedly agreed to close down its $100m military drone base near Agadez, which was built six years ago and played a key role in the US/France strategy to combat jihadists in West Africa.

In a statement on Monday, Muhammed Ishaq, national publicity secretary of PRP, said accepting foreign military bases in Nigeria could affect the security, sovereignty, and overall well-being of the country.

“The PRP joins other Nigerian patriots who have alerted President Tinubu and members of the National Assembly on the dangers of the ongoing attempts by the USA and some European countries to relocate their military bases in the Sahel, where they have been kicked out by host nations, to Nigeria,” the statement reads.

“As a party resolutely committed to the sovereignty, security and well-being of our nation, we feel it is our responsibility to voice our concerns and caution the Nigerian government against entering into any pacts that may endorse such arrangements.

“The relocation of these foreign military bases to our beloved nation carries with it a myriad of potential dangers that could adversely affect the security, sovereignty and overall well-being of our dear country.”

The PRP advocated for a comprehensive, inclusive strategy to tackle the challenges in the Sahel region, while prioritising diplomacy, regional cooperation, and sustainable development.

Some northern leaders had also cautioned against the planned establishment of foreign military bases in the country.