Nigeria expresses concern over political crisis in Niger

The Federal Government has expressed concern over the political and security situation in the Republic of Niger following an attempted coup in the country’s capital, Niamey.

The government said the development was particularly concerning given Nigeria’s close historical, cultural and fraternal ties with Niger.

The spokesperson for the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Oluwafemi Adeniyi, disclosed this in a statement issued in Abuja on Sunday.

“The Government of Nigeria views with deep concern the current political and security situation in the Republic of Niger,” the statement said.

Niger’s ruling military junta had said it was back in control after mutinous soldiers clashed with security forces in Niamey on Saturday.

The clashes reportedly occurred around sensitive sites, including the presidential palace and a military base at the international airport, while the state broadcaster, Tele Sahel, was briefly taken off air.

The junta described the incident as a “destabilization plot” and said it had been contained.

The Federal Government said it was keen to see peace, security, democracy and development prevail in Niger, noting that stability in the country would have a direct and positive impact on Nigeria, the sub-region and the Sahel.

The statement added, “Any resort to the use of force to settle political differences detracts from this objective.

“It therefore urges the government and people of Niger to work together towards an inclusive and participatory return to stability and constitutional order in the interest of the country, regional peace and stability.”