The Nigerian Army has denied alleged plan to assemble its forces for military action against the Military Juncta in Republic of Niger.
According to a statement by the Army o. Thursday, it is yet to receive orders from appropriate quarters for the move.
The military noted that “military option is the last to be taken in case every other option fails to reverse the situation and return the Government of Republic of Niger to constitutional order.”
Truth Live News reports that economic sanctions as well as military intervention are top among options being considered by the Economic Community of West Africa (ECOWAS).
Part of the statement reads: “the attention of the Armed Forces of Nigeria has been drawn to an online report stating that the Armed Forces of Nigeria (AFN) is assembling its forces for military action in Republic of Niger.
“The AFN is yet to receive any order from the appropriate authority to commence military action, against the Military Junta in Niger.
“It’s no longer news that some members of the Republic of Niger Armed Forces seized power from a democratically elected government through un-constitutional means.
“In reaction to this illegal take over of government the ECOWAS Heads of Government met and a series of options were reached on how to intervene in the crisis.
“At the moment, ECOWAS Committee of Chiefs of Defence Staff is currently holding an extraordinary meeting in Abuja to discuss the political situation in Republic of Niger and submit their plans to the committee of Heads of States and Government of ECOWAS for consideration.
“In conclusion, the Armed Forces of Nigeria cannot proceed on any operation in any of the member states of ECOWAS without the mandate from the Authority of Heads of States and Government.”