The coup plotters who seized power in Niger today accused France of airspace violation, as part of a wider plan to destabilize the African country.

The self-styled “National Council for the Protection of the Homeland” reported that a French “military aircraft” took off at 06:01 (local time) from Chad and entered Niger airspace, cutting off all communication with the control center from 06:39 to 11:15 (local time). Niger’s junta has accused France of “liberating terrorists”.

The French Foreign Ministry categorically denied the coup plotters’ claims.
Anti-French rhetoric has been a feature of other coups in the region in the past two years, including those in Mali and Burkina Faso, whose leaders strongly support the military that seized power in Niger.

The leaders of the coup they refused yesterday Tuesday the entry of African envoys and UN representatives, refusing to bow to pressure to come to the negotiating table ahead of tomorrow’s summit at which Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) leaders will discuss the possibility of military intervention .

A former rebel leader in Niger has announced the formation of a movement opposing the junta, in a first sign of internal resistance to military rule in the strategically important Sahel country.

Risa Ag Bulla said in a statement released today that the “Resistance Council for Democracy” aims to restore the ousted president Mohamed Bazumwho has been detained at his residence since the military seized power.

The development comes as diplomatic efforts to restore constitutional order in Niger appear to have stalled, while the military governments of neighboring Mali and Burkina Faso have called on the United Nations to prevent possible military intervention.