Nigeria Raises Alarm Over Political and Security Situation in Niger Republic

The Federal Government, has expressed serious concern over the political and security situation in the Republic of Niger.

The government’s statement came after gunfire and explosions in Niamey, the capital of Niger, on Saturday.

They said the Diori Hamani International Airport in Niamey and the presidential palace had been attacked.

The Nigerien security forces, with help from Africa Corps, repelled coupists who tried to take power from the country’s leader, Abdourahamane Tchiani.

Niger’s Military Junta, called the National Council for the Safeguarding of the Homeland (CNSP), confirmed that military personnel had tried to overthrow the junta.

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However, in a statement issued by its spokesperson, Oluwafemi Adeniyi, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs said the Federal Government viewed with deep concern the current political and security situation in the Republic of Niger.

“It notes that as a neighbor with which it shares close historical, fraternal and cultural bonds, the Federal Government of Nigeria is keenly desirous to see that peace, security, democracy and development reign supreme in the country.

“It notes that a peaceful, secure and stable situation in Niger will affect positively and directly Nigeria, the sub-region and the Sahel in this regard,” the government said.

The Federal Government further stated that the resort to the use of force to settle political differences detracts from the objective.

“It therefore calls on the government and people of Niger to work together toward an inclusive and participatory return to stability and constitutional order in the interest of the country, regional peace and stability,” the statement read.