Defence Headquarters, Abuja has denied news mailing around that the Armed Forces of Nigeria (AFN) is assembling its forces for military action in the Republic of Niger.
Adding that “Military option was the last option to be taken in case every other option fails to reverse the situation and return the Government of Republic of Niger to constitutional order.”
In a statement by the Acting Director, Defence Information (DDI), Brigadier General Tukur Gusau on Wednesday explained that the military’s attention was drawn to “an online report” that such action has commenced.
“The Armed Forces of Nigeria cannot proceed on any operation in any of the member states of the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) without the mandate from the Authority of Heads of States and Government.”
Gen Gusau further explained that “The AFN is yet to receive any order from the appropriate authority to commence military action, against the Military Junta in Niger.
“It’s no longer news that some members of the Republic of Niger Armed Forces seized power from a democratically elected government through unconstitutional means.
“In reaction to this illegal takeover of government, the ECOWAS Heads of Government met and a series of options were reached on how to intervene in the crisis.
Gusau further reiterated that “ECOWAS Committee of Chiefs of Defence Staff is holding an extraordinary meeting in Abuja to discuss the political situation in the Republic of Niger and submit their plans to the committee of Heads of States and Government of ECOWAS for consideration.
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