RFI has learned that Benin has decided to block the shipment of Nigerien oil, from the Sèmè Kpodji platform, in Benin where the pipeline lands. The pipeline, nearly 2,000 km long, carries Nigerien oil from Agadem to Benin.
With our correspondent in Cotonou, Jean-Luc Aplogan
Relations have been tense between the two countries since General Tiani’s coup and even more tense when Niamey kept its borders closed, despite the effective opening on the Benign.
Cotonou’s decision was taken at the highest level of the State, this Monday, May 6, and notified to the Chinese ambassador to Benin and to the pipeline management company. In practice, Benin will prohibit its waters from boats that come to take on board Nigerien oil for export, confides a person close to the matter. At stake: 90,000 barrels per day.
President Patrice Talon, after being intransigent with the putschists of July 26, 2023 and then in favor of a possible military intervention to restore Nigerien democracy, ended up softening his position. He had declared that he wanted to normalize his relations with the Niger. When ECOWAS decided to lift economic sanctions in December, the Beninese president ordered the opening of the borders, but, to this day, they still remain closed on the Niger side. Benin does not understand.
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