APA-Niamey (Niger) Niger’s president Mohamed Bazoum is being held by his own bodyguards in an apparent coup, according to sources in Niamey on Wednesday.
Reports speak of a coup in the making as presidential guards stormed President Bazoum’s official residence which has been sealed off.
Some members of his government including senior ministers are also being held, according to sources.
Witnesses in Niamey say the Nigerien capital appears ‘calm on the surface’ and no gunfire has been heard despite heavy troop build-up near the presidental palace.
The African Union has issued a statement condemning the action by apparently irate guards.It is not clear what had triggered their apparent insurrection which does not seem to have the support of regular troops.
Meanwhile President Bazoums office has issued a tweet, saying the apparent rebels had not succeeded in their attempt to win the backing of Niger’s armed forces.
Leading politicians in Niger including Bazoum’s immediate predecessor Mahammadu Issoufou are mediating an end to the political crisis.
WN/as/APA