BREAKING: France Begins Evacuation of Citizens From Niger Republic

• The evacuation of French citizens and other European nationals from the Niger Republic has commenced
• The evacuation was announced on Tuesday, August 1, by the Ministry for Europe and Foreign Affairs following an attack on the French embassy
• There has been tension in the Niger Republic after the military took over power from the ousted President Mohamed Bazoum

Niamey, Niger Republic - France has announced the evacuation of its citizens and other European nationals from the Niger Republic following the dramatic coup by the military.

The Ministry for Europe and Foreign Affairs disclosed this in a statement, adding that the evacuation commences today, Tuesday, August 1, Premium Times reported.

The statement reads in part:

"Given the situation in Niamey, the violence that took place against our embassy the day before yesterday and the closure of airspace which leaves our compatriots without the possibility of leaving the country by their own means, France is preparing the evacuation of its nationals and European nationals wishing to leave the country.”

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Tension rises in Niger Republic as Abdourahmane Tchiani declares himself new leader

Meanwhile, Legit.ng reported that General Abdourahmane Tchiani, on Friday, July 28, declared himself the new leader of the Niger Republic after a dramatic coup.

Also known as Omar Tchiani, he staged a takeover which started on Wednesday, July 26, when the presidential guards unit he led seized the country's leader, Mohamed Bazoum.

ECOWAS considers military intervention in Niger to restore Bazoum

Legit.ng also reported that the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) said it may use military might to restore constitutional order in Niger Republic following the dramatic coup that ousted President Mohamed Bazoum from office.

ECOWAS also issued a seven-day ultimatum to the Nigerien military headed by General Abdourahamane Tchiani to reinstate Bazoum as President.

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Niger soldiers confirm coup, declare removal of President Bazoum on national television

Soldiers in the Niger Republic announced a coup on national television late Wednesday, July 26, a Legit.ng report states.

They were reported to have dissolved the constitution, suspended all institutions, and closed the nation's borders. One of the rebel soldiers, Lieutenant Colonel Amadou Abdramane, said the army had decided to put an end to the administration of President Mohamed Bazoum.

Source: Legit.ng