Nigerian Citizens Urged to Counteract Foreign Interference

Amidst the ongoing fallout from the recent coup in Niger, a significant gathering took place in the capital city where citizens, alongside civil society groups, rallied in support of the ruling junta. The demonstration, organized by the junta itself, coincided with Niger's independence day and saw a growing number of participants. Demonstrators in Niamey displayed fervent solidarity, raising their fists and vocalizing their backing for neighboring nations that have also undergone military takeovers in recent times.

Interestingly, some protesters waved Russian flags, with one individual even proudly holding a flag that combined both Russian and Nigerien emblems. The rally served as a platform for many to express their allegiance to the coup leaders while vehemently denouncing external interference. A protester named Moctar Abdou Issa highlighted the suffering endured by the Nigerien people for over a decade and expressed optimism that the junta's leadership could pave the way for positive change. Issa's sentiments captured a common thread among the demonstrators, who aired their frustrations with France and other Western entities, voicing a desire for a fresh direction for their nation.

The Western world, including European countries, has criticized the coup, and ECOWAS, the West African regional bloc, has even issued threats of potential intervention to remove the junta from power. Amid this international tension, General Salifou Mody, one of the key figures behind the coup, made a visit to Mali. The trip has fueled speculation about potential affiliations with the Wagner mercenary group. Notably, Mali has already welcomed hundreds of Wagner contractors to aid their military junta's efforts in countering an Islamist insurgency along the shared borders of Mali, Burkina Faso, and Niger.

It's important to note that this story has been gathered from a third-party syndicated feed and agencies. Mid-day, as a platform, holds no responsibility for the accuracy, reliability, or content of the text. The management reserves the right to modify, delete, or withdraw the content at its discretion, without prior notice, for any reason.

Next Article