Niger coup: Battle line drawn, as Nigerien soldiers Block Nigerian Army From Getting Food items

By Ezurike Ugochukwu

Following the recent pronouncement of the Economic Community of West African States(ECOWAS) heads of government of a potential military action against the junta in Niger Republic, Nigerian soldiers in Malam Fatori have been denied food access by their Nigerien counterparts in the neighbouring town of Bosso.

The towns of Malam Fatori in Nigeria and Bosso in Niger, were hitherto connected by a friendly daily interaction between the two neighbouring soldiers, however, they are now experiencing heightened tension and hostility due to recent positions against Niger Republic by ECOWAS as sanctions and declaration of military war expected from this Monday.

Boss, Niger

The two brotherly neighbours have found themselves in a delicate situation. Presently, Nigerian soldiers are facing an unfortunate setback as they have been denied access to Bosso town to source items for their daily lives and basic provisions.

Following the military coup that ousted the democratically-elected government of President Mohammed Bazoum of Niger Republic, Nigeria has closed its border with her.

On Friday morning, the Acting Comptroller General of Customs Bashir Adeniyi, at Illela, Sokoto state, said the borders have been closed, and there are restrictions of movement along the areas.

He, therefore, advised Nigerians who were planning to travel to Niger to stay safe at home, saying that only Nigerians that are returning home were allowed to cross the border.

He also said Nigeria Customs had deployed its personnel to block all the unorthodox roads through which some of the foreigners may likely infiltrate.

“You know Sokoto and Niger Republic, we are a homogeneous society, with the same language, religion and culture, but we have a colonial boundary which we must respect.”