JUST IN: Niger Republic cuts diplomatic ties with Nigeria, recalls ambassador
The military government of Niger Republic has cut off ties with Nigeria, its former colonial ruler France, Togo, and the United States.
Spokesperson for Niger’s coup leader Gen Abdourahmane Tchiani, Col. Maj. Amadou Abdramane said this in a national broadcast on Thursday, according to Radio France International.
According to him, “The functions of the extraordinary and plenipotentiary ambassadors of the Republic of Niger” to France, Nigeria, Togo and the United States are terminated,”
Nigeria’s president Bola Ahmed Tinubu as the Chairman of the Economic Community Of West African States (ECOWAS) on Thursday sent a delegation led by former military Head of State, Gen Abdulsalam Abubakar to Niger Republic.
ECOWAS had 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.”
Niger’s junta, 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 neighboring 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.”
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.
The country had also gotten support from Guinea, Mali and Burkina Faso who are also under military rule.