Metro/Crime

Attempted coup in Niger Republic: FG warns against use of force to settle political differences

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Nigeria has warned Niger Republic against the use of force to settle political disputes after the ruling military junta said soldiers within its military forces attempted a coup.

Gunfire and explosions were heard in several parts of Niamey, Niger’s capital, early Saturday as attackers targeted the city’s Diori Hamani International Airport.

The airport houses an air force base, a major military installation, and is located about 10km from the presidential palace.

The assailants reportedly also attempted to breach the security perimeter around the presidency.

It is the third attack on the airport this year.

In a statement on Sunday, Oluwafemi Adeniyi, spokesperson of Nigeria’s foreign ministry, said the country was concerned about the political and security situation in Niger.

Adeniyi said Nigeria hopes for peace, security, democracy and development in the neighbouring country.

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

“It notes that, as a neighbour 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.

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

Nigeria charged Niger authorities to work towards an “inclusive and participatory” return to stability and constitutional order in the interest of regional peace.