Just In: Nigerian Aircraft With Hajj Pilgrims Stuck in Coup-hit Niger Republic

• Niger Republic’s presidency raised the alarm on Wednesday, July 26, that members of the presidential guard tried to move against President Mohamed Bazoum
• Hours later, men in military fatigues claimed on national television to have seized power in the West African nation
• The National Hajj Commission of Nigeria (NAHCON) is airlifting Nigerian pilgrims from Saudi Arabia, but some pilgrims are trapped in Niger Republic

Niamey, Niger Republic - Max Air aircraft 5N-ADM on a Hajj flight to Niger Republic is currently stranded in Niamey airport.

The development is caused by the ongoing military coup in the country, The Punch reported on Thursday, July 27.

Niger Republic coup: Max Air aircraft stranded in Niamey

According to Radio Nigeria, the Max Air plane, a b-747-400, landed in Niamey at 2140z (2240 local time) with 360 Nigerian pilgrims onboard. Captain Maitama Kabo was in command of the 18 crew onboard.

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Coup: Guards reportedly detain Niger President, Bazoum

Earlier, Legit.ng reported that Niger President Mohamed Bazoum was reportedly detained by guards inside the presidential palace in Niamey following an “ultimatum” by the army.

Sources said disgruntled members of the Presidential Guard sealed off access to the president’s residence and offices.

President Bola Tinubu releases strong statement on Niger Republic coup

Legit.ng also reported that Bola Ahmed Tinubu, the president of Nigeria and chairman of ECOWAS Authority of Heads of State and Government, on Wednesday, July 26, described the developments in Niger Republic as “unpleasant”.

Access to the residence and offices of Niger President Mohamed Bazoum was blocked off earlier in the day by members of the elite Presidential Guard.

President Tinubu said the leadership of the ECOWAS region and all lovers of democracy globally would not tolerate such a situation.

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Tensions rise as Niger soldiers confirm coup, declare removal of President Bazoum on national TV

In another related news, Legit.ng reported that soldiers in Niger Republic announced a coup on national television late on Wednesday, July 26.

BBC reported they had dissolved the constitution, suspended all institutions, and closed the nation's borders.

One of the rebel soldiers, Lieutenant Colonel Amadou Abdramane, spoke.

Source: Legit.ng