Niger Republic Cuts Ties With Nigeria, France, Others As Peace Talk Fails

Afimag.com –

The military leadership of Gen. Abdourahmane Tchiani in Niger Republic has cut off ties with Nigeria, Togo, France, United States and other countries trying to restore democracy in the state.

This was aftermath of a failed endeavor by the Economic Community of West Africa States (ECOWAS) to return to civilian rule failed in Niger.

Nigeria President Bola Tinubu had sent a high-powered delegation to the country to meet with the coup leaders on Thursday.

The delegation which was headed by General Abdulsalami Abubakar only met with representatives of the junta.

Niger’s commission, however, announced a termination of the military agreements and protocols signed with France and announced the end of functions for Niger’s ambassadors to France, the United States, Togo and Nigeria, which is leading ECOWAS efforts on dialogue.

“The functions of the extraordinary and plenipotentiary ambassadors of the Republic of Niger” to France, Nigeria, Togo and the United States are terminated,” Abdramane stated.

“All aggression or attempt at aggression against the state of Niger will see an immediate response and without warning.”

ECOWAS earlier issued a seven-day ultimatum for the reinstatement of President Mohamed Bazoum to avoid a possible clash with the junta.

Bazoum in a plea published in a Washington Post opinion piece said, “I write this as a hostage and urged the U.S. and partners to help.”

Meanwhile, European countries have started the evacuation of their nationals in Niger, as Mali, Burkina Faso and Guinea, expressed support for the coup.

The military took over power in Niger Republic in July after armed troops blockaded the presidential palace in Niamey.