The Nigerian embassy in Niger Republic has debunked reports that it was attacked and burnt by angry protesters in Niamey, Niger over the political crisis in the country.
A statement signed by Liti Auwalu, for the Nigerian Ambassador to Niger Republic said on Saturday that protesters attempted to access the embassy but they were repelled by Nigerien military and police.
This comes after viral images and videos on social media were circulated with claims that the Nigerian Embassy in Niamey was set ablaze.
The fake video:
There is tension in Niger following the July 26 coup d’etat that ousted President Mohamed Bazoum and threats by the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) to restore the constitutionally recognised government by force if needed.
Nigerian President Bola Tinubu is the chairman of the regional bloc and supporters of pro-military junta in Niger have been expressing anger towards him and Nigeria during protests.
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.”
Related story:
BREAKING NEWS ! Niger Crisis: Protests Break Out in Kano and Katsina States (video)