Nigerian government warns against use of force to settle political differences following coup attempt in Niger Republic

Nigeria has warned against the use of force to resolve political disputes in Niger Republic following an alleged attempted coup that the country’s ruling military junta said was carried out by soldiers within its own forces.

Gunfire and explosions were reported in parts of Niamey, Niger’s capital, early Saturday after attackers targeted Diori Hamani International Airport, which also houses an air force base and a major military installation. The airport is located about 10 kilometres from the presidential palace. The assailants reportedly also attempted to breach the security perimeter around the presidential complex.

The incident marks the third reported attack on the airport this year. In a statement, Oluwafemi Adeniyi, spokesperson for Nigeria’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs, said the Nigerian government was concerned about the political and security situation in its neighbouring country.

Adeniyi said Nigeria hoped to see 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,” 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 called on the Nigerien authorities to pursue an “inclusive and participatory” path towards restoring stability and constitutional order, saying such an approach would serve the interests of peace across the region.