**Conflict at the Port of Seme: Tensions between Benin and Niger**
Relations between Benin and Niger have become strained in recent weeks, with the recent incident at the port of Seme reigniting hostilities between the two neighboring West African countries. This episode reflects a prolonged dispute, exacerbated by mutual allegations of hostile acts since May.
The arrest of five Niger nationals by the Beninese authorities for alleged illegal entry into the port of Seme was the trigger for this tense situation. In retaliation, Niger accused Benin of having kidnapped staff from its oil company present on site to supervise the loading of a cargo of oil. According to the Beninese authorities, two of the detainees are agents of the Niger military regime, having used false documents to access port facilities.
The port of Seme has become a hot spot in relations between these two countries. Landlocked Niger uses this port to export its oil via a pipeline connecting its oil fields to the port. In May, Benin blocked the shipment of Nigerien oil, alleging that Niamey refused to reopen its border to trade. This blockade was finally lifted after China’s intervention.
Since the military coup that occurred in July in Niger, the latter has closed its borders. Benin has reopened its part of the border and is asking its neighbor to do the same. However, Niger accuses Benin of hosting French troops on its soil, suspected of seeking to destabilize it.
This new episode of conflict between Benin and Niger highlights regional tensions and divergent interests between the two countries. It also highlights the importance of international partnerships and external mediators to defuse conflicts and promote peace in the region.