The junta in Niger Republic has made the decision to sever diplomatic relations with Nigeria, its former colonial ruler France, Togo, and the United States.
The announcement was made by Col. Maj. Amadou Abdramane, the spokesperson for Niger’s coup leader Gen Abdourahmane Tchiani, during a national broadcast on Thursday, as reported by Radio France International.
Last month, a political upheaval unfolded in the West African nation of Niger Republic, as soldiers declared a coup and forcefully seize control of the government.
The soldiers announced that they have dissolved the country’s constitution, suspended all democratic institutions, and imposed a state of emergency.
Consequently, the borders of Niger were closed, causing concern and uncertainty both domestically and internationally.
President Mohamed Bazoum, who was democratically elected, was arrested and detained by troops from the presidential guard.
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The political crisis in Niger deepened as Nigeria’s President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, also serving as ECOWAS Chairman, dispatched a delegation led by former military Head of State, Gen Abdulsalami Abubakar, to mediate the situation.
ECOWAS had previously issued a seven-day ultimatum for the reinstatement of President Mohamed Bazoum, threatening possible consequences if the junta failed to comply.
President Bazoum made a plea through a Washington Post opinion piece, describing himself as a hostage and urging the United States and its partners to intervene and help restore democracy in Niger.
However, in response to international pressure and mediation efforts by ECOWAS, Niger’s junta made a defiant move by terminating all military agreements and protocols signed with France.
They have also ended the functions of Niger’s ambassadors to France, the United States, Togo, and neighboring Nigeria.
“The functions of the extraordinary and plenipotentiary ambassadors of the Republic of Niger” to France, Nigeria, Togo, and the United States are terminated,” Abdramane declared.
The junta’s spokesperson, Col. Maj. Amadou Abdramane also issued a stern warning to any parties attempting aggression against Niger.
“All aggression or attempt at aggression against the state of Niger will see an immediate response and without warning,”
Meanwhile, European nations have commenced the evacuation of their citizens from the country.
Countries like Guinea, Mali, and Burkina Faso, which are also under military rule, have offered their backing to Niger during this period.
