The coup leaders of Niger have taken the step of closing the nation’s airspace indefinitely, citing concerns about a potential military intervention from neighboring countries.
Currently, flight tracking platform Flightradar24 indicates that Niger’s skies are devoid of any aircraft.
Ecowas, a regional coalition of West African nations, had previously issued a warning that they might resort to force if President Mohamed Bazoum wasn’t reinstated by 23:00 GMT on Sunday.
A spokesperson for the junta expressed the readiness of Niger’s armed forces to safeguard the country.
The detention of President Bazoum on July 26 led to Gen Abdourahmane Tchiani, commander of the presidential guard, declaring himself the new leader.
The international community, including France, the European Union, the United Nations, and the United States, has condemned the military takeover. Speaking on national television, a junta representative cited information suggesting a foreign power was preparing to launch an attack on Niger.
Following a crisis meeting in Nigeria, Ecowas military chiefs revealed a detailed plan for a potential use of force, stating that all aspects of such an intervention had been meticulously mapped out.
Despite this, Ecowas still seeks a diplomatic resolution and is offering Niger’s junta the opportunity to reverse its actions.
The ultimatum set by Ecowas, demanding the relinquishment of power by the coup leaders, has now lapsed.
Niger’s neighbors Burkina Faso and Mali, both members of Ecowas (though currently suspended due to military rule), cautioned that any external military intervention in Niger would be considered a hostile act.
Niger holds significance as a major uranium producer, a vital resource for nuclear energy. Under President Bazoum, the nation played a crucial role as a Western ally in combatting Islamist extremist groups in the Sahel region of West Africa.
Source – bbc.com
