Niger coup: Nigeria govt clears air on burning down of embassy in Niamey

Contrary to circulating reports, the Nigerian embassy situated in Niger Republic has refuted claims of being set ablaze by enraged demonstrators in Niamey, Niger.

A communiqué issued by Liti Auwalu, on behalf of the Nigerian Ambassador to Niger, has dispelled these rumors. The statement, shared with our correspondent on Saturday, elucidates that while protesters did attempt to breach the embassy premises, the local military and law enforcement effectively contained the situation. It further affirmed that the embassy remains under vigilant protection.

The statement read, “It has been brought to our notice that fake videos showing the torching of the Chancery Building in Niamey by protesters is circulating on various social media platforms.

“The Embassy wishes to inform the general public that even though protesters tried to gain access to the Embassy on July 30, 2023, the Nigerien Military and Police Authorities promptly curtailed the situation.

“At the moment, the Embassy is well guarded by the Nigerien Military and other Security Authorities.

“We reiterate that the videos are fake and as such the general public is enjoined to disregard such videos.”