Niger: Coup Leaders Shut Down Air Space

Coup leaders in Niger have shut down the country’s airspace and blamed their decision on the threat of military intervention from neighbouring countries.

The junta took the decision after the deadline given by the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) for the return of power to President Mohamed Bazoum expired on Sunday, August 6, 2023.

ECOWAS warned Niger of a possible military intervention if coup leaders fail to return Bazoum to power during a meeting in Nigeria’s capital, Abuja, on Sunday, July 30, 2023.

Despite the threat issued by ECOWAS, countries like Mali and Burkina Faso (also under military rule) pledged their support to the junta and warned that any military intervention by the regional body would be considered an act of aggression against them too.

A transport plane was sighted arriving in Niger from Ouagadougou, the capital city of Burkina Faso, a few hours after the airspace was shut.

On Sunday, Niger’s military leaders said they got information regarding the plans of “a foreign power” to carry out an attack on the country.

Military chiefs from ECOWAS, including Nigeria, Ghana, Senegal, Togo, and more, had drawn out a detailed plan for the use of force in Niger, but the bloc’s commissioner for political affairs, peace, and security, Abdel-Fatau Musah, revealed that while “all the elements” were worked out regarding an “eventual intervention” in Niger, ECOWAS still wants “diplomacy to work.’’

Nigerian President Bola Tinubu has faced strong domestic pressure and opposition to plans for military intervention in Niger, as senators voted against it in the National Assembly.

Related: Military Coup Cannot Happen in Nigeria- Buhari

Senators from states bordering Niger protested strongly against President Tinubu’s plan for an intervention in Nigeria.

While Tinubu maintains his threat to use force on Niger if the junta does not return power to Bazoum, he needs the support of the Nigerian Senate to carry out his plans.