A report emerging has revealed that youths in the Republic of Niger, especially in the country’s capital city, Niamey, are currently forming vigilante groups ahead of possible military intervention by neighbouring countries to unseat the new junta.
OsunDailyNG reports that the ultimatum issued by the Economic Community of West African States, ECOWAS’ to the junta to restore normalcy in the country elapsed on Sunday, August 6, 2023.
There has been tension all over as Niger’s democratically elected President, Mohamed Bazoum, who was outed by the military junta, is still held captive.
It was, however, said that vigilante groups in Niger are already creating roadblocks at several junctions and roundabouts as they commence inspection of vehicles.
Daily Post quoted a DPA reporter in the country that the youths belong to support committees that previously organized demonstrations backing Niger’s new military rulers led by Bazoum’s former head bodyguard, General Abdourahmane Tchiani.
Niger’s military rulers closed the country’s airspace late on Sunday, warning that any attempt to violate it would be met with an “energetic and immediate response.’’
The country’s airspace would be closed to all aircraft until further notice, a statement from the military rulers added.
ECOWAS, which groups 15 West African countries, issued its ultimatum to the junta last Sunday.
The organization’s military chiefs have since drawn up a plan for possible military intervention.
