Members of Niger’s Elite Presidential Guard have cordoned off President Mohamed Bazoum’s residence and offices, raising concerns of a possible coup attempt.
The West African nation, known for its political instability, has witnessed four coups since gaining independence from France in 1960, along with numerous other attempts to seize power.
As the situation unfolds, sources report that talks are underway with the President to address the situation.
Despite the sealing off of his official home and the presidential complex in Niamey, there have been no reports of unusual military movements or gunfire in the area, and traffic remains normal.
Assuring the public about President Bazoum’s safety, an anonymous source stated, “The President is fine, he’s safe and sound. He and his family are at the residence.”
Niger’s tumultuous political history includes a coup in February 2010 that ousted then-President Mamadou Tandja.
Additionally, just two days before President Bazoum’s inauguration on March 31, 2021, there was an attempted putsch, resulting in several arrests, including the alleged mastermind, Air Force Captain Sani Gourouza, who was later apprehended in neighboring Benin and handed over to the Niger authorities.
Earlier this year, in March, there were reports of another bid to overthrow President Bazoum while he was in Turkey.
However, the authorities refrained from making any public comments on the incident.
As the situation remains fluid, the nation and the international community closely monitor developments in Niger to ensure the safety and stability of the country.
