Niger Military Accuse France of Deploying Forces

Rebel forces in Niger have made allegations of France deploying military forces near the Nigerien border, with the rebels claiming that this move is part of a potential military intervention plan.

The rebels conveyed their concerns through a statement broadcasted on national television on Sunday.

"France continues to deploy its forces in several countries of the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) as part of preparations for an act of aggression against Niger, which it has been preparing in cooperation with this organization," AFP quoted the rebel government as saying in a statement.

This report suggests that French troops are being stationed not only near Niger but also in other ECOWAS member countries, including Ivory Coast, Senegal, Benin, and more.

In late July, a group of military officers from Niger's presidential guard staged a mutiny, resulting in the removal of President Mohamed Bazoum from power.

In the aftermath, the National Council for the Safeguard of the Homeland was established, led by the guard's commander, Abdourahmane Tchiani, to govern the country.

The leaders of ECOWAS member countries responded by imposing strict sanctions on Niger and demanding the release of Bazoum, with the implicit threat of using military force if their demands were not met.