The leaders of the coup in Niger have closed the country’s airspace due to fears of possible military intervention by neighboring states.
“In the face of the threat of intervention, which is becoming increasingly apparent due to preparations by neighboring countries, Niger’s airspace is closed to all aircraft from Sunday until further notice,” the rebels said.
Earlier, the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) countries issued an ultimatum to the leaders of the rebellion, led by the head of the presidential guard, Abdurrahman Tchiani, threatening to use force if ousted president Mohamed Bazoum was not reinstated by Sunday evening.
The rebels have said that Niger’s armed forces are ready to defend the country, and any attempt to violate the airspace will be met with an immediate response.
