Nigerien army pledges allegiance to coup plotters

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The army said the decision was necessary to avoid fighting within the armed forces, it said.

Niger’s army has declared allegiance to the defense and security forces that overthrew President Mohamed Bazoum on Wednesday, according to a statement on Thursday signed by Abdou Sidikou Issa, the army chief of staff.

The statement, posted on X, the platform formerly known as Twitter, said the decision was necessary to avoid fighting within the armed forces.

🛑🛑🛑#COMMUNIQUE de l’Etat-Major des Armées. pic.twitter.com/X2nPIeq4ds

— Forces Armées Nigériennes (@ArmeesNiger) July 27, 2023

Members of the Presidential Guard had detained President Mohamed Bazoum inside his palace in the capital Niamey.

Wednesday’s incident triggered a standoff with the army and has sparked global condemnation.

More details to follow…