Attempted coup: FG warns against use of force to resolve political disputes in Niger

Nigeria has warned against the use of force to resolve political differences in Niger Republic following reports of an attempted coup within the country’s military.

Gunfire and explosions were reported in parts of Niamey, the Nigerien capital, early Saturday after attackers targeted Diori Hamani International Airport.

The airport, which hosts an air force base and other military facilities, is about 10 kilometres from the presidential palace. The attackers were also reported to have attempted to breach security around the presidency.

The incident marks the third attack on the airport this year.

Reacting to the development, Nigeria expressed concern over the political and security situation in its neighbouring country.

In a statement on Sunday, Oluwafemi Adeniyi, spokesperson for Nigeria’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs, said the government was interested in seeing peace, security, democracy and development restored in Niger.

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

He said Nigeria’s close historical, cultural and fraternal ties with Niger made the stability of the country particularly important to Abuja.

“In this regard, it notes that a peaceful, secure and stable situation in Niger will impact positively and directly on Nigeria, the sub-region and the Sahel,” he said.

“Any resort to the use of force to settle political differences detracts from this objective.”