Abuja: Nigeria has reaffirmed its cordial diplomatic relations with The Gambia amid alleged controversy and has cautioned people against making inflammatory comments that could escalate a diplomatic row between the two countries. Mr. Kimiebi Ebienfa, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs’ spokesman, said this in Abuja while briefing newsmen following purported speculations of diplomatic tensions between Nigeria and The Gambia.
According to News Agency of Nigeria, the briefing was informed by a letter allegedly written by ECOWAS President Omar Touray to Nigeria’s Foreign Affairs Minister requesting the withdrawal of ECOWAS Commissioner for Internal Services, Nigeria’s Nazifi Darma. Additionally, another letter from a CSO, ‘Make A Difference Initiative,’ addressed to The Gambian President, requested the recall of Touray, a Gambian, from ECOWAS on grounds of misconduct.
Ebienfa emphasized that people should avoid making comments that would cause unnecessary diplomatic misunderstandings between friendly countries, such as Nigeria and The Gambia. He noted there was a newspaper analysis on a radio station, where statements were made that displeased the ministry.
The ministry wants to make it categorically clear that there is no issue between Nigeria and The Gambia, asserting the existence of a very cordial relationship. Ebienfa highlighted Nigeria’s contributions to The Gambia, stating that Nigerians have held sensitive positions in The Gambia, including roles in the military, hospitals, and judiciary. For instance, a Nigerian has served as Chief Judge of The Gambia.
He further elaborated that Nigeria has been involved in significant roles, such as heading The Gambia’s military as Chief of Army Staff or Chief of Defence Staff, providing assistance during crisis periods, and collaborating in various international arenas. He expressed concern over statements suggesting that The Gambia, being less populated than Nigeria, has no right to object to the treatment of Nigerians, clarifying that this is not the case.
Ebienfa explained that appointments at the ECOWAS Commission are made by the Authority of Heads of State and Government, who assign portfolios to different member states. Member countries nominate candidates reviewed by an ad hoc ministerial committee, which then submits recommendations to the Commission, followed by submissions to the ECOWAS Council of Ministers for final decisions.
He noted that Darma had been invited by the ministry to brief it on the situation at the Commission, which he has satisfactorily done. The ministry has communicated its position to President Bola Tinubu on the best course of action in Nigeria’s interest regarding the matter.
Ebienfa mentioned that Darma has taken Touray to the Community Court of Justice, indicating that with the matter in court, there is little more that can be done. Disciplinary procedures involving Commissioners and the ECOWAS Commission are handled by the community’s Council of Ministers, he added.